Reasons for Failure of 3rd Crusade

Question 1

POOR LEADERSHIP SKILLS

Answer 1

FOR:
1) Richard rumoured to have been involved in Conrad’s death –> led to Philip breaking his promise back home and causing havoc

AGAINST:
1) Richard was well prepared for the Crusade through Saladin Tithe

Question 2

BYZANTINE HOSTILITY

Answer 2

FOR:
1) Isaac Dukas Komnenos captured Richard’s sister and wife in Cyprus
2) Isaac (Byz emp) initially imprisoned Frederick’s envoys (BUT – eventually offered safe passage)

AGAINST:
1) Richard gained control of Cyprus in March 1191 which proved to be a crucial base for arriving fleets to head to the Holy Land.

Question 3

MUSLIM UNITY

Answer 3

FOR:
1) Jihad - Saladin’s unified Egypt and Syria under Sunni Islam
2) Saladin’s destruction of the fortifications at Ascalon and from Jaffa to Jerusalem

AGAINST:
1) Saladin’s financial resources were severely overstretched and he was struggling to pay for the on-going war
2) He also faced a potential division within the army.

Question 4

LACK OF CLEAR AIMS

Answer 4

FOR:
1) Richard’s decision to try and take Jerusalem twice (disputes between military orders)
2) French army returning to Acre after Richard not attacking Jerusalem, leading to lack of manpower