Peter the Hermit

Peter the Hermit was a medieval Christian preacher known for his role in the First Crusade in the late 11th century. He inspired thousands of people, including ordinary individuals and peasants, to join a religious campaign to reclaim Jerusalem from Muslim control. His passionate sermons emphasized the importance of pilgrimage and the promise of salvation for those who fought in the Holy Land. Peter led a wave of unorganized, often ill-equipped crusaders on what became known as the People's Crusade in 1096. His movement ultimately failed militarily but significantly shaped the larger Crusade efforts that followed.