1. EQ: What changes occurred in Europe as a result of the Crusades ?

2. What were the Crusades?
The Crusades were a series of expeditions from Christian Europe to Palestine between the 11th and 13th Centuries.
They had a lasting impact on European politics and society.
The main struggle was between Christians and a Muslim group
Known as Seljuk Turks.

3. What events led to the First Crusades?
Jerusalem and the area around it was (and still is) sacred to Christians, Jews, and Muslims.
This area is also known as the Holy Land.
The Seljuk Turks were Muslims who conquered the area of Jerusalem in 1071, which made Christian pilgrimages to the Holy Land nearly impossible.
The Byzantine Emperor called for help in 1096 when the Turks attacked the Byzantine Empire, the Pope responded by sending armies of Crusaders.

4. What were the economic affects of the Crusades?
Merchants were willing to finance the Crusades so they might
gain wealth through trade routes.
European contact with the cultures of the Eastern Mediterranean grew during the Crusades.
Crusaders brought back Asian goods, resulting in increased trade. These goods included spices, furs, cloth, cane sugar, rice, and different fruits.
Because of the Crusades, there was a greater interest in trade.

5. How did the Crusades affect the Jews and non-Christians?
Jewish Population
Hostility towards Jewish people increased.
On their way to Palestine, Crusaders murdered European Jews.
They were excommunicated from England and France.
Non-Christians
Viewed as part of the problem.
Considered the enemy.
Persecution increased and grew worse.

6. How did the Crusades change the balance of power in Europe?
The feudal system began to break down.
More trade led to the growth of towns.
Towns required strong leadership for good business and trade.
Kings provided this stability, and as a result the King’s gained power.
Powerful Nobility began to lose power and common people began to become more loyal to the King.

7. Summary
What were some changes that occurred as a result of the Crusades:
Economically?
Socially with Jews and non-Christians?
Politically?
Answer completely in at least one paragraph.