Why was the Third Crusade launched? Flashcards
Response to the defeat at Hattin: Why was the Third Crusade launched?
The Third Crusade was launched in response to the defeat at Hattin, where Saladin destroyed the largest army assembled by the Frankish settlers of the Kingdom of Jerusalem.
Response to the defeat at Hattin: What happened at the battle of Hattin on 4 July 1187?
At the battle of Hattin, King Guy was captured, knights of the military orders were executed, and most of the nobility was captured, leaving the kingdom at Saladin’s mercy.
Response to the defeat at Hattin: How did the defeat at Hattin affect Western Europe?
The defeat at Hattin stunned and shamed Western Europe, as they had ignored warnings from the Crusader states and failed to secure aid for Jerusalem.
Response to the defeat at Hattin: What was the significance of the papal bull Audita Tremendi?
The papal bull Audita Tremendi, issued by Gregory VIII, aimed to regain control of the crusading movement and restore prestige through a successful campaign.
Assertion of papal leadership: What were the circumstances surrounding the papacy before the Third Crusade?
Pope Alexander III, despite his desire to help Jerusalem, was embroiled in disputes with Emperor Frederick I, limiting his ability to aid the crusader states.
What was the situation regarding the succession crisis in the Kingdom of Jerusalem?
After Baldwin IV’s death in March 1185, his will stated that his nephew Baldwin would be king with Raymond of Tripoli as regent, and the Pope and Western rulers would decide the succession if Baldwin V died young.
What was the expectation regarding Jerusalem after the issuance of the papal bull?
There was an expectation that Jerusalem would soon fall, and when news of its fall reached Western Europe, it accelerated calls for a new crusade.
Why was the recapture of Jerusalem considered a top priority?
Jerusalem was seen as the ‘centre of the earth’ and the site of the Holy Sepulchre, making its recapture a major priority for the papacy and a significant part of European life.
What was the perception of Jerusalem being in Muslim hands?
The possession of Jerusalem by ‘infidels’ was considered a deep insult, linked to fears of the apocalypse.
