The History of the Fourth Crusade (by Geoffrey de Villehardouin)

The Fourth Crusade (1202-1204), initially aimed at reclaiming Jerusalem from Muslim control, diverted from its original mission due to political and financial issues. Led by European knights, it became entangled in Venetian interests and rivalries within the Byzantine Empire. In 1204, crusaders captured Constantinople instead of reaching the Holy Land. This controversial decision deepened the schism between Eastern Orthodoxy and Western Catholicism and weakened Byzantine influence. Chronicler Geoffrey de Villehardouin documented these events, providing insight into the motivations and challenges faced by the crusaders, showcasing the complexities of medieval politics and religion.