Ships of the Crusades

Joining me for this episode is Dr. Nicholas Morton, Associate Professor with the School of Arts and Humanities at Nottingham Trent University. Dr. Morton has written many books, including The Mongol Storm: Making and Breaking Empires in the Medieval Near East.

The Crusades were a series of religious wars initiated by European Christians between the 11th and 13th centuries, aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land from Muslim control. These campaigns involved significant military efforts that spanned several decades, resulting in ongoing conflicts between European powers and Muslim territories in the Middle East. The Crusaders relied heavily on reinforcements, supplies, and communication from Europe, making maritime logistics essential for their campaigns. As many of the Crusades targeted areas like the Levant, which bordered the Mediterranean, control of sea routes became crucial for maintaining the flow of troops, weapons, food, and other supplies.

Ships played a vital role in transporting Crusaders, their horses, and their supplies across the Mediterranean. These vessels were typically galleys and large sailing ships equipped for both war and transport. Galleys, in particular, were favored for their speed and maneuverability, often being rowed when winds were unfavorable. Large Byzantine warships were used extensively by both Crusaders and their allies. Merchant ships were also repurposed to carry heavy equipment and reinforcements. Maritime supply lines were vulnerable to enemy attacks, and naval battles were frequent, with Crusaders often needing the protection of fleets from Venetian or Genoese navies, who provided expertise in shipbuilding and navigation. These fleets were essential in maintaining the Crusaders' foothold in the Holy Land.

Written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. All episodes can be found at ⁠https://www.shipwrecksandseadogs.com⁠. Original theme music by ⁠Sean Sigfried⁠.

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