What happened in the crusades 900 years ago?

Answer 1

Much happened during the Crusades. After the Muslims had conquered the Holy Land and were on the doorstep of the Byzantine Empire, the Emperor sent a plea for help to the Pope of the Catholic Church. The Pope, Urban II, then, while giving a sermon, called out to all faithful Christians throughout Europe to launch a military campaign to reconquer the lost Holy Land. Thus began the First Crusade, the first of many massive, multinational campaigns against the Turks of the Near East, particularly Palestine. These "holy wars" saw many bloody events, with severe brutality, especially against civilians, coming from both sides. While only somewhat successful militarily for the Europeans, they greatly helped to consolidate the power of the Muslims in the region for centuries. A deep-seated hatred and distrust was also born between white Westerners and Middle Eastern Muslims. However, Europe did benefit greatly culturally, since the learning that had been preserved by the Islamic empire finally made its way to Europe as a result of the contact the wars brought about, greatly helping to end the Dark Ages of Europe. Other, smaller Crusades were also launched against "heathens" in southwestern Europe and against pagans in the North.