Lions Led By Donkeys Podcast Episode 342 - The Seventh Crusade and the Battle of Mansurah
Dec 16, 2024
A fever dream prompts King Louis IX to launch the Seventh Crusade, but history quickly repeats itself as he follows a failed battle plan. The hosts humorously dissect Louis's fundraising struggles, misguided strategies, and the challenges of navigating Egypt's waterways. As the crusaders land at Damietta, initial luck turns dire with delays and Bedouin harassment. The fate of Robert of Artois and the disastrous trap in Mansoura lead to chaos, disease, and Louis's capture, raising questions about legacy and sainthood in the aftermath.
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Episode notes
Egypt Was The Strategic Choke Point
- The Crusaders repeatedly tried to retake the Levant by conquering Egypt first as a strategic necessity.
- Louis IX believed capturing Egypt would secure the route to Jerusalem but underestimated local geography and logistics.
Mongol Talks Were Practical, Not Religious
- Louis IX tried diplomatic outreach to the Mongols but Vatican politics blocked pragmatic alliances.
- The Mongols were pragmatic and willing to cooperate against Muslim states, but the Pope refused submission to them.
Don't Reuse Failed Battle Plans
- Avoid repeating failed plans without adapting to new circumstances.
- Louis reused the Fifth Crusade plan for Damietta and paid the price for failing to innovate.
