The Fifth Crusade (1217–1221)

The Fifth Crusade (1217–1221) was an attempt by European Christians to reclaim Jerusalem and the Holy Land from Muslim control. Organized primarily by the Catholic Church, this crusade sought to capture the Egyptian city of Damietta as a strategic point. Crusaders believed that by taking Egypt, they could weaken Muslim power and gain access to Jerusalem. Despite initial successes, including the capture of Damietta, the crusaders struggled with logistics and unity. Ultimately, the campaign faltered, and many crusaders were lost. By 1221, the crusade ended in failure, highlighting the challenges of sustaining such military efforts in the region.