The Four Crusader States in the Holy Land

How the Crusade Became a Medieval Institution

This article explores how the crusade emerged as a distinct medieval institution, shaped by ideas of holy war, just war, and penance.

The Four Crusader States in the Holy Land

As a site of great significance for three world religions, the Levant has been subject to brutal wars over the centuries. When Pope Urban II launched the First Crusade in 1095, the main target was Jerusalem and the Holy Land. During the First Crusade, the Christians successfully established four Crusader states, known collectively as Outremer. While the Christian territory shrank over time, they maintained a presence in the Holy Land for almost …