Latin East

The Latin East refers to the territories in the eastern Mediterranean that were controlled by Western European powers during and after the Crusades, between the late 11th and late 13th centuries. It primarily includes regions like the Crusader states in modern-day Israel, Lebanon, and Syria. Established by Latin Christian knights and nobles, these states aimed to maintain a Christian presence in the Holy Land. The term highlights the cultural and political influence of Latin (Roman Catholic) Europe in these areas, contrasting with the Byzantine and Muslim cultures that were already present. The Latin East eventually declined due to military defeats and shifting political dynamics.