School of War
Ep 151: Nicholas Morton on the Crusades
Oct 11, 2024
Nicholas Morton, a Senior Lecturer in History at Nottingham Trent University and author of a detailed military history on the Crusader States, shares insights into the Crusades. He breaks down the complex dynamics between the Franks and Turks, discussing innovative military tactics and the significance of sieges. Morton analyzes the rise and eventual failure of the Crusader states, highlighting key figures like Saladin. He also draws connections between historical conflicts and modern Middle Eastern issues, showcasing the fluidity of warfare in both eras.
52:06
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Quick takeaways
- The Crusades were driven by a combination of territorial pressures on the Byzantine Empire and socio-political issues in Western Europe.
- Military outcomes of the Crusades were shaped by the adaptation of combatants' strategies and the logistical challenges of long-distance warfare.
Deep dives
Understanding the Crusades: A Complex Phenomenon
The Crusades emerged from a series of intertwined factors involving significant territorial pressures on the Byzantine Empire and socio-political issues within Western Europe. As Turkic communities advanced westward, they destabilized regions crucial for pilgrimage to Jerusalem, prompting calls for military action from the papacy. Despite the logistical inadequacies of Western European armies, which were ill-equipped for such long-distance campaigns, the First Crusade saw improbable military success against the invading Turks. This success, initially a surprise, led to the establishment of Crusader states like Jerusalem, Antioch, and Edessa, fundamentally reshaping the political landscape of the Middle East.
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