The Crusades

Using what you know about religion in the Middle Ages, why do you
think people were willing to risk their lives to become crusaders?

The crusaders wanted to control Jerusalem. This was important because it was
the holy city where Christ was born this was also believed to be the center of the
Earth. Also, Crusaders thought that they would be sure of a place in heaven. The
reason they think this is because they are fighting for God and his holy city, and
they will reward him. Not only that, but Bravery, love and honor were very
important to crusader knights, because these traits are expressed in the bible.
To what extent do you think motives other than religion drove the
Crusades?

Gold and riches were another reason that the crusaders fought. They fought for
God and his glory, but at the same time, they wanted the treasures. As they
fought and took over land, they were granted the riches from the battle, and
many of the crusaders were there for that reason.
What effect did the crusades have on the Middle Ages?

The crusades let the Europeans learn many new things from the Muslims
including different ways to build and sail ships and how to make and use magnetic
compasses. Europeans were also introduced to many new trade goods while on
crusade, including silk, different spices, and new forms of art and literature. The
impact the crusades had on the Middle Ages was huge. It increased the desire for
trade with other parts of the world. The desires lead to the rise of the merchant
class.

The Hundreds Years War

What role did the earlier history of England and France play in bringing
the two kingdoms to war?

The king of France died, and had no son, so no one could take his place. The
English attempted to take the throne, but the Frenchmen won, causing the war.
The French were able to handle the English more effectively during the
second phase of the war. Why?

The use of linear formations of drilled musketeers had led to a massive increase in
the size of Frances army, in turn letting them handle the English more effectively.
In what ways, if any, did each kingdom emerge stronger or weaker
after the Hundred Years' War?

The king of France grew in power due to the support from his nobles, while
Englands king became less powerful because their people supported the
Parliament.
How did the Hundreds Years War help end feudalism?

After the Hundred Years war, the parliament became very powerful. The Kings
power became smaller and less powerful. People supported the Parliament
because people wanted to be equal and have their own rights.