From that day forward, tens of thousands of commonfolk, soldiers, knights,
nobles and even kings took up the standard of crusade. Admittedly, not
everyone’s motives were pure. Besides the spiritual values underpinning
the crusade, some were lured by the prospect of territorial gain, rich
treasure and financial opportunities, others by a simple thirst for adventure.
Nevertheless, in its ideal the crusade was a true expression of faith based on
the sacrifice of one’s life for the sake of Christ.
In all there were eight official crusades and two unofficial ones. The
official crusades, their leaders and achievements were as follows:
First Crusade (1096-1099):
Godfrey de Bouillon, Raymond of Toulouse, Bohemund of
Taranto;
Captured Jerusalem and established the four Crusader
states of Jerusalem, Tripoli, Antioch and Edessa. A
total success.
Second Crusade (1147-1149):
Conrad III of Germany; Louis VII of France;
Aimed at alleviating the threat to the Crusader states after
the loss of Edessa in 1144. A major and demoralizing
failure.
Third Crusade (1189-1192):
Frederick I of Germany; Richard I of England; Philip II of
France;
Aimed at recapturing Jerusalem lost to Saladin on October
2, 1187. Conquered Cyprus, recaptured Acre. Saladin also
defeated at Arsuf and Jaffa. Lacking manpower, a treaty
was negotiated with Saladin allowing pilgrims to enter
Jerusalem. A partial success.
Fourth Crusade (1202-1204):
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