Holy Wars (Crusades)

The Holy Wars, known as the Crusades, were a series of religiously motivated military campaigns from the 11th to the 13th centuries, primarily initiated by Christians in Europe to reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim control. Triggered by a call from Pope Urban II, these wars were marked by conflicts, spiritual fervor, and significant cultural exchanges. While the goal was to recapture Jerusalem and other sacred sites, they also involved complex politics and rivalries. The Crusades left a lasting impact on Christian-Muslim relations and shaped medieval society, influencing trade, exploration, and the balance of power in Europe and the Middle East.