The Crusade of 1456: Texts and Documentation in Translation

In July 1456, a Turkish army led by Sultan Mehmed II laid siege to Belgrade, an ancient city at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers. Three weeks later, they were driven off by a Hungarian warlord and a ragtag force of crusaders. James D. Mixson's book, The Crusade of 1456, presents primary sources from Latin, Byzantine, and Ottoman perspectives, challenging readers to understand this fascinating yet previously neglected story. An accessible introduction, timelines, and maps help to illuminate the events.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2022
Publisher: University of Toronto Press

In the summer of 1456, a formidable Turkish army made its way to the ancient city of Belgrade, situated at the meeting point of the Danube and Sava rivers. At the helm of this army was the young Ottoman sultan Mehmed II, also known as the Conqueror, driven by a fierce ambition to seize one of the most strategically significant fortifications in southeastern Europe. Three weeks after their arrival, Mehmed's forces were routed by a Hungarian warlord and his army, accompanied by a motley group of ill-equipped crusaders.

In his comprehensive work titled "The Crusade of 1456," James D. Mixson has assembled a collection of primary sources that provide invaluable insights into the events that unfolded before the siege of Belgrade. These newly translated sources offer a diverse range of perspectives, encompassing papal decrees, letters, liturgies, and chronicles from Latin, Byzantine, and Ottoman cultures. An accessible introduction, detailed timelines, and comprehensive maps serve to enhance our understanding of this captivating yet previously overlooked chapter of history.

The Turkish army's arrival in Belgrade marked a significant turning point in the ongoing conflicts between the Ottoman Empire and the Christian states of Europe. Mehmed II's determination to expand his empire and assert his dominance over the region sent a clear message to his rivals. However, the Hungarian warlord and his allies proved to be a formidable opposition, utilizing their superior military tactics and resources to overcome the Ottomans.

The Crusade of 1456 is a testament to the complex interplay of political, religious, and military forces that shaped the medieval world. It highlights the enduring struggle between the forces of Islam and Christianity, as well as the broader geopolitical tensions that characterized the early modern period. By delving into the primary sources and providing a comprehensive analysis, Mixson offers readers a fresh perspective on this pivotal moment in history.

In conclusion, "The Crusade of 1456" is a must-read for anyone interested in medieval history, European politics, and the complex dynamics of religious conflict. Through the newly translated primary sources and expert analysis, James D. Mixson has shed light on a previously neglected chapter of history, offering a valuable contribution to our understanding of the past.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781487523930