The Crusades were a series of wars waged by Christians against Muslims during the period known as the "Dark Ages." The Muslims had been rapidly taking over land in Asia and Western Europe during the prior centuries. When the Holy Land fell, many Christians in Europe felt that something had to be done about it.

Pope Urban II's fiery speech at the Council of Clermont led to the First Crusade. As with an Islamic jihad, Christian warriors who died in battle were promised a reward in heaven. For more information on the Crusades, check out the following sites: