by

What was the Shepherd’s Crusade (1251)?

Introduction The Shepherds’ Crusade of 1251 was a popular crusading movement in northern France aimed at rescuing King Louis IX during the Seventh Crusade. Background In 1249, Saint Louis IX of France went away on crusade, leaving his mother, Blanche of Castile, as regent during his absence. Louis was defeated and captured in Egypt. When… Read More

by

What were the Popular Crusades?

Introduction The popular crusades were several movements “animated by crusading enthusiasm” but unsanctioned by the Church. Background They contrast with the “official crusades” authorised by the Papacy. While the latter consisted of professional armies led by apostolic legates, the popular crusades were generally disorganised and consisted of peasants, artisans and only the occasional knight. The… Read More