Pope Urban II and the First Crusade
Pope Urban II and his influence in developing and promoting the First Crusade in the 11th century
Christianity during the Middle Ages has been characterized by numerous conflicts that focus on the struggle for religious and political dominance, particularly in Europe and other Western societies. Of particular interest in the study of the history of the Christian religion are the events that surround European civilization between the 8th- 11th centuries. During these periods, Christianity experienced several movements that changed the social, political, and economic landscape of the European society and the Christian community in general.
One individual that played a significant role in propelling the Christian community into the socio-political movements of Europe during these periods is Pope Urban II, the religious leader of the Christians during the 11th century. He became known for his active role in inciting to his fellow Christians the emergence of the First Crusade, a holy war waged against the Moslem forces that invaded Jerusalem during that time. His role as the supreme leader of the Western religious community and his active participation as the leader of the Crusaders will be the focus of this research paper. This paper will discuss in particular Urban II's speech in Clermont, France in November 27, 1095, the day the First Crusade was declared. Urban II's speech will be analyzed and related to the study of the social, political, and economic conditions of Europe...
The Crusader states that were set up in the aftermath of the First Crusade represent the achievement of these aims, and the expansion of the Western feudal system into the East. Military orders such as the Knights Hospitallers early combined the idea of religious objectives with the acquisition of landed estates. The Order was already acquiring extensive lands in Europe itself by the early Twelfth Century. The creation of Crusader
In the same way, anyone that took it upon them to forsake the goods of this world, in order to crusade in the Holy Land would be able to inherit eternal life. Pope Urban reportedly also promised a complete remission of their sins to whoever promised to undertake and take part in the First Crusade to liberate the East from libels and heathens. He said, "...advance boldly, as knights of
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