Crusades essay plan

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Why did Pope Urban II launch the First Crusade?

Political

Investiture Contest - Urban wanted to restore the reputation of the papacy and establish its power after losing it to Henry VI when he deposed the pope. May not have been a direct cause because this event was 20 years before the First Crusade however opportunity was previously lacking. He had no reason to restore the reputation of the papacy until Alexius’ letter asking for help gave him a opportunity.

It made Urban the most political leader in Europe; the pope was in charge and it made Europe subordinate to him. As the one who launched it, he was the leader in power and control of the crusades.

Extending Roman influence into the East would make him more powerful.

His relationship with Alexius was strengthened because Urban is helping and responding to his letter. The Byzantine Empire was the ‘bridge’ between the East and West. The pope saw an opportunity to strengthen that bond and improve his reputation.

Alexius’ request improved relations and Pope Urban II launched the crusade to make his political relations stronger. He sent a request letter in March 1095 and Urban began preaching eight months later in November of 1095.

Religious

The expansion of Islam (to North Africa, Spain, Turkey etc.) was a threat to the Christians. In Turkey there was the Battle of Manzikert in 1075 which left the Byzantine weaker and more vulnerable.

Investiture Contest - Religion takes precedence and shows that whilst politics is important, everything is at the route of religion.

In his speech, Urban refers to the crusade as a ‘Holy War’ and brands it religiously as justification for the war.

Jerusalem was heaven on earth so any Pope would’ve wanted to gain control of it.

Motivating Christians and preaching about pilgrimages and Jerusalem to mask his political ideas and ambitions.

The destruction of churches needed to be stopped. The Holy Sepulchre was destroyed in 1009, this would have given a reason to go on crusade to protect.

Peace in Europe

Targeted nobility

Diverted the violence from Europe by giving them a common enemy. They stopped fighting against each other in civil wars and fought against the other religions.

Trying to unite all Christians against the muslims

The peace of God movement started in 1000 and tried to stop violence. Local nobility agreed not to attack churches, unarmed people etc.

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