Historical Events tagged with "crusades"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Military & Warfare

Crusaders Capture Constantinople

April 12th, 1204 821 years ago

The Crusaders of the Fourth Crusade breached the walls of Constantinople, entering the city after a prolonged siege. This marked a significant turning point in the CrusADES as they would completely occupy the city the following day. The capture stemmed from political machinations and rivalry in the Byzantine Empire, alongside promises of wealth and influence, driving the Crusaders to take such an aggressive action. This occupation had ramifications not only for the Byzantine Empire but also for Christian and Muslim relations in the region.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Alexios IV Angelos Declared Co-Emperor

August 1st, 1203 821 years ago

Isaac II Angelos restored his authority and, under pressure from the Fourth Crusade forces, named his son Alexios IV Angelos as co-emperor of the Byzantine Empire. This decision was influenced by the need to secure support and loyalty from the crusaders who were seeking to establish a Latin empire in Constantinople.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Fourth Crusade Assaults Constantinople

July 17th, 1203 821 years ago

Amidst a backdrop of religious fervor and political intrigue, the Fourth Crusade launched a significant assault on Constantinople, leading to the flight of Byzantine Emperor Alexios III Angelos from his imperial capital. This military effort, initially intended to reclaim Jerusalem, focused unexpectedly on the bustling city of Constantinople, which was a center of commerce and Christian orthodoxy. The assault was marked by significant battles for control and power, culminating in the strategic retreat of Alexios III and his eventual exile.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Richard I Captured by Leopold V of Austria

December 20th, 1192 832 years ago

While returning from the Third Crusade, King Richard I of England was captured and imprisoned by Duke Leopold V of Austria. This occurred after a series of battles in the Holy Land and his subsequent travels through Europe. Richard’s capture was partially due to his detour through Austria, where Leopold sought retribution for Richard's alleged slight against him during the Crusade. The king was held for ransom, which created a significant political stir across England and Europe.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Assassination of Conrad of Montferrat

April 28th, 1192 833 years ago

Conrad of Montferrat, recently confirmed King of Jerusalem, was assassinated in Tyre by agents of the Hashshashin just two days after his election. This murder marked a significant shift in the power dynamics of the Crusader states, as it eliminated a key ruler and added to the instability of the region.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Saladin Defeated by Richard I at Arsuf

September 7th, 1191 833 years ago

In September 1191, Richard I of England achieved a significant victory against the forces of Saladin at the Battle of Arsuf, located near the Mediterranean coast in present-day Israel. Richard, leading the Crusaders, successfully rallied his troops after being pressured by Saladin’s forces during their march to Jaffa. Utilizing a well-orchestrated cavalry charge, the Crusaders managed to turn the tide against Saladin’s forces, marking a pivotal moment in the Third Crusade. This battle demonstrated Richard's military prowess and increased his reputation among his peers and enemies alike.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Acre's Siege Concludes with Saladin's Surrender

July 12th, 1191 833 years ago

After a two-year siege, Saladin's garrison surrenders to King Philip II Augustus of France and King Richard I of England at the city of Acre. The successful siege leads to the capture of strategic fortifications and a considerable number of Muslim prisoners. The fall of Acre is crucial for the Crusaders' control over the Holy Land as it serves as a gateway for further military ventures towards Jerusalem. This victory solidifies alliances and sets the stage for future confrontations between the Crusaders and Muslim forces.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

King Richard I of England arrives in Acre

June 8th, 1191 833 years ago

King Richard I of England, also known as Richard the Lionheart, landed in Acre to lead the forces of the Third Crusade against Saladin. His arrival marked a significant moment in the Crusade, showcasing his commitment to reclaim Jerusalem and support Christian forces in the region. The Siege of Acre was ongoing, and the arrival of Richard energized the besieging troops and rekindled hopes for success against the Muslim leaders defending the city.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Conrad of Montferrat Marries Isabella I of Jerusalem

November 24th, 1190 834 years ago

Conrad of Montferrat ascended as the King of Jerusalem upon his marriage to Isabella I of Jerusalem. This union was significant as it secured his claim to the throne amidst the ongoing conflicts in the region. The marriage took place in Tyre, which was a strategically important city at the time. Both individuals were pivotal in the political arena of the crusader states, and their union merged their ambitions and resources to strengthen the Latin kingdom in the Holy Land.

Continue Reading