Military orders

Question 1

why were they created?

Answer 1

to deal with the lack of manpower in crusader states

Hospitillars originated from the Hospital of St John which cared for sick pilgrims but became an order
e.g. involved in siege of Damascus 1126

Question 2

what was their function?

Answer 2

gave rulers of Outremer access to trained knights - bound by religious orders yet able to give financial support through donations

Templars original purpose was to protect pilgrims following Easter Massacre 1119 - soon became Outremer’s standing army

Question 3

Reputation and status

Answer 3

Bernard of Clairvaux wrote ‘In praise of the New Knighthood’ and the rule of the Templars which gained them recognition across Europe
–> led to numerous nobles in Europe leaving significant funds to the orders e.g. 1134 Alfonso of Castille left his kingdom to the Templars

Question 4

How effective were the military orders - role in conflict with Damascus?

Answer 4

Templars active in the battles between Jerusalem and Damascus 1130s and 40s

Question 5

How effective were the military orders - 2nd crusade?

Answer 5

Templars - provided banking service for Louis VII and his men as they travelled through Anatolia - gave food and supplies to the army on their journey

Hospitallers - in command of a number of crusader castles by 1136
e.g. 1148 joined the siege of Damascus and helped the capture of Ascalon in 1153