Finance and the Crusades: England, c.1213-1337

This book explores the financial aspects of crusading in the thirteenth and early fourteenth centuries, arguing that private fundraising was the life-blood of the movement. The crusades were able to remain central to the religious and political life of England because participants were willing to sacrifice their financial wellbeing for the interests of the Holy Land.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate financial aspects of crusading during the thirteenth and early fourteenth centuries, with a particular focus on the kingdom of England. Through a detailed case study, it explores a wide range of themes, including the substantial costs associated with crusades, the diverse funding mechanisms employed, the transfer of funds to the East, and the financial outcomes for crusaders upon their return.

Contrary to prevailing historiography, the book's central argument posits that the crusade movement relied on the private fundraising efforts of individuals rather than the public fundraising efforts of the Crown and the Church. It suggests that the crusades were able to maintain their significance in the religious and political life of England and Western Christendom primarily because participants and their associates were willing to prioritize the interests of the Holy Land over their own financial well-being.

The book meticulously examines various sources, including historical records, financial documents, and contemporary accounts, to shed light on the complex financial dynamics of crusading. It explores the various methods used to raise funds, such as donations, loans, and the sale of indulgences, as well as the roles played by religious institutions, noble families, and merchant communities. The book also discusses the challenges and risks associated with fundraising, including the potential for corruption, financial mismanagement, and military failures.

Furthermore, the book explores the impact of crusading on the financial and economic systems of the time. It examines how the influx of wealth and resources from the East affected the local economies, the development of trade networks, and the emergence of new financial institutions. The book also considers the long-term effects of crusading on the social and political structures of Europe, including the rise of feudalism, the decline of the papacy, and the emergence of national monarchies.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the study of crusading history by offering a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the financial aspects of these historical events. Through its detailed analysis and insightful arguments, it challenges traditional narratives and sheds light on the complex web of factors that shaped the crusade movement in the thirteenth and early fourteenth centuries.

Weight: 439g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367705572