Jerusalem Falls: Seven Centuries of War and Peace

The medieval struggle for Jerusalem was a time of conflict, faith, and empire, with the city changing hands countless times. Despite this, there was also interfaith tolerance and accord, with conquerors acknowledging and reinforcing the rights of religious minorities. This account reveals how Jerusalem's past has been constructed on partial histories and urges us to reckon with its broader historical contours.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 11 October 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

The medieval struggle for Jerusalem, spanning from the seventh to the thirteenth century, was a turbulent and complex era marked by repeated attacks and conflicts. Few cities have experienced such relentless assaults, and Jerusalem was no exception. The city's history is a tapestry of conflict, faith, and empire, with its walls serving as a witness to countless battles and sieges.

Despite the horrors of war, the medieval period also witnessed remarkable instances of interfaith tolerance and accord. This was particularly evident during the Crusades, when different religious factions came together to protect Jerusalem from foreign invaders.

In his comprehensive book, John D. Hosler delves into the intricate details of medieval Jerusalem's history. He examines the city's many sieges, shedding light on the experiences of its inhabitants, regardless of their faith. The conquerors of Jerusalem, recognizing the importance of religious minorities, consistently upheld their rights and protected them under their rule.

Hosler's research is meticulous, drawing on a wide range of sources and historical accounts. The book challenges the prevailing narratives of Jerusalem's past and encourages readers to consider the city's broader historical context. It serves as a reminder that history is not always linear and that our understanding of the past is shaped by a combination of partial histories and broader narratives.

The medieval struggle for Jerusalem was a pivotal period in the history of the region, marked by intense religious and political tensions. Through his detailed exploration of this era, Hosler provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of Jerusalem's past and its enduring significance.

Dimension: 235 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300255140