What were the crusades? What motivated most Europeans to join the crusades?
http://www.google.com/search?q=crusades+summary&oq=crusades&aqs=chrome.4.69i57j0l5.8107j0j7&sourceid=chrome&espv=210&es_sm=119&ie=UTF-8
Read, read, read, and take good notes.
The Crusades were a series of military campaigns initiated by the Christian powers of Europe during the Middle Ages. They took place between the 11th and 13th centuries and aimed to regain control of the Holy Land (Jerusalem and its surrounding regions) from the Muslims. The Crusades were seen as a holy war, driven by religious zeal and the desire to defend Christianity.
To understand what motivated most Europeans to join the Crusades, we can look at several key factors:
1. Religious fervor: The primary motivation for joining the Crusades was religious. The Catholic Church, particularly Pope Urban II, called for the liberation of the Holy Land, promising spiritual rewards and the forgiveness of sins to those who participated. Many Europeans believed that fighting for the cause of Christianity would secure their place in heaven.
2. Economic and territorial reasons: The feudal system of medieval Europe meant that many knights and nobles were constantly seeking land, wealth, and honor. The Crusades provided an opportunity to acquire new territories and riches, especially for those who might not have inherited valuable land or titles.
3. Adventure and pilgrimage: The idea of embarking on a great adventure and exploring foreign lands attracted many Europeans. The Crusades offered an opportunity for knights and warriors to showcase their skills, earn fame and glory, and satisfy their thirst for adventure. Additionally, undertaking a pilgrimage to the Holy Land held deep religious significance for Christians, making the Crusades a journey of great spiritual importance.
4. Political and social factors: The feudal society of medieval Europe was hierarchical, with limited opportunities for advancement and mobility. Joining the Crusades provided an opportunity for knights and younger sons of noble families to gain fame, fortune, and potentially even land and titles upon their return.
It is important to note that the motivations for joining the Crusades varied among individuals, with a combination of factors influencing their decision.