The First Crusade

Committee Description

1097, Byzantium is in dire straits. The expansion of the Seljuk Sultanate has caused the loss of Anatolia. Simultaneously, Seljuk forces have conquered Jerusalem, filling Western Europe with reports of brutality against Christian pilgrims. In response to this, Pope Urban II has called for an armed pilgrimage, a crusade, to aid the Byzantines and claim Jerusalem. Tens of thousands of Catholics across Europe have heeded Urban’s call. Noble and common, righteous and wicked, the crusaders come from all walks of life. Motivated by both piety and greed, this momentous migration will dramatically alter the course of history. Delegates will take on the roles of crusading nobles, clergymen, and Byzantine officials. Ostensibly united in purpose, these factions will battle both their enemies, and potentially each other, as they journey to the holy land. Oaths will be made and broken, castles will be built and burned, and Europe will enter into a new era with the First Crusade.

Topic A – Directing the Army

The official goal of the crusade is to conquer Jerusalem, but there are a variety of opinions regarding what else the crusade should do. The Byzantines wish to use the crusaders to fight off the Seljuks and reclaim Anatolia. Meanwhile, Latin clergy believe that the crusade will empower the pope, increasing his influence among Europe’s secular rulers. Many western lords are on crusade out of loyalty to the papacy. However, many others see the crusade as a chance to gain new lands for themselves in the east. These differing opinions will come to a head when delegates are directing the crusade’s army. Some delegates will attempt to go out of their way to conquer as much territory as possible, while others will solely aim at Jerusalem. Regardless, these factions must find common ground to ensure that the crusade does not meet a bloody end.

Topic B – Achieving Victory

In spite of their massive numbers, the journey to Jerusalem is bound to be a long and uphill battle. Delegates must face numerous hostile powers who have no interest in them completing their objective. The first wave of the crusade has already been slaughtered by Turkic nomads. Delegates must figure out methods to overcome these nomads, in addition to logistical difficulties, and numerous walled cities that are in their way. The crusade’s main asset is its large contingent of mounted knights. These heavily armoured horsemen are unmatched in hand to hand combat and are a boon for the crusaders. However, these knights are almost irreplaceable. Meanwhile, the bulk of the crusading host is made up of infantrymen. Infantrymen whose experience and equipment is inconsistent at best. In the end, regardless of numbers and knights, victory will require savvy leadership from delegates.

Background Guide