County of Edessa

The County of Edessa was one of the first Crusader states established in the Holy Land after the First Crusade in the 11th century. Founded in 1098, it was located in present-day Turkey and served as a critical Christian outpost. Edessa was notable for its diverse population, including Christians, Muslims, and Jews. The county played a vital role in the Crusades by serving as a buffer against Muslim forces but fell to the Muslim general Zengi in 1144. Its loss marked a significant turning point, leading to increased tensions and further Crusades.