Essay Planning: Causes of the Crusades
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This worksheet guides students through planning an essay on the causes of the Crusades, encouraging structured thinking and understanding of key points.
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Essay Planning: Causes of the Crusades
Untitled Worksheet
Essay Title
Explain the main causes of the Crusades and evaluate their importance in triggering the medieval conflicts.
Introduction Thesis
Outline the essay's main argument by explaining that the Crusades were caused by a combination of religious, political, and economic factors, with religious motivations being the most significant.
Point 1: Religious Zeal
Source: Medieval church leaders often called for crusades to reclaim Jerusalem, citing religious duty and the desire to defend Christendom.
Historian View: Historian A argues that religious fervor was the primary driver, as Pope Urban II's call in 1095 inspired thousands to join.
Question:
Explain how religious motivations contributed to the start of the Crusades. (4 marks)
Point 2: Political Instability
Source: European monarchs sought to increase their power by participating in the Crusades, gaining land and prestige.
Historian View: Historian B states that political motives, such as strengthening monarchies and uniting fragmented states, played a key role.
Question:
Compare the political reasons for the Crusades with the religious reasons. (6 marks)
Counter-argument: Economic Factors
Source: Merchants and traders saw opportunities for wealth through control of trade routes and acquiring new markets.
Historian View: Historian C suggests economic gain was a significant but secondary cause.
Question:
Outline how economic factors influenced the causes of the Crusades. (4 marks)
Conclusion
Write a brief conclusion summarizing the main causes of the Crusades and evaluating their relative importance.
Additional Question: Assessing Causes
Compare the importance of religious, political, and economic causes in triggering the Crusades. Use evidence from the sources and your knowledge.
(8 marks)
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Details
- Created
- 1/1/2026
- Updated
- 1/1/2026
- Type
- worksheet