Revision Topic Sheet 14: Development of the Templars

Question 1

What were the three papal bulls that established the privileges that the Templars had?

Answer 1

1. Omne Datum Optimum (Every Best Gift), which allowed the Templars to keep all loot from the Saracens (Arabs/Muslims), appoint their own leader and be exempt from taxes to the church.
2. The Milites Templi (Soldiers of the Temple), which allowed the Templars to have annual collections in their own churches and have indulgences equivalent to 1/7 of what was donated.
3. The Militia Dei (Soldiers of God), which allowed the Templars to establish their own chapels and cemeteries in addition to having the right to take church taxes and burial fees in their chapels.

Question 2

Who was Robert of Craon?

Answer 2

He helped to develop the Templar Order by helping the Order gain papal support as well as the economic and political status that strengthened the foundation of the Order.

Question 3

What were the important roles that different members of the Templars had?

Answer 3

• Grand Masters were the head of the Order and were responsible for making the key decisions, such as going to war and making peace with enemies.
• Seneschals were responsible for guarding the Templar banner in battle, showing their loyalty.
• Marshals were responsible for individual. commanders, horses and equipment for the Order, making them important.
• Drapers were responsible for distributing clothes and bed linen to all of the Templars who needed them.
• Commanders were responsible for important regions such as Tripoli and Antioch.

Question 4

How was the Order divided?

Answer 4

It was divided into knights and sergeants, with the sergeants being a higher rank due to their social class.

Question 5

What are some historical views on the Templars?

Answer 5

The Templars were seen as effective since they helped prevent Turkish attacks and didn’t need wealth in order to be effective.