The siege of Jerusalem began on June 7, 1099, and lasted for eight weeks

It was the final major battle of the First Crusade, and resulted in the capture of the Holy City from the Muslim Fatimid Caliphate. The crusaders then massacred large numbers of the inhabitants, Muslims and Jews alike.

The siege of Jerusalem began on June 7, 1099, and lasted for eight weeks. The crusaders were outnumbered by the defenders, but they were better equipped and motivated. They also had the advantage of surprise, as the Fatimids were not expecting them to attack Jerusalem so soon.

On July 15, the crusaders finally broke through the city walls and entered Jerusalem. They then proceeded to massacre the inhabitants, regardless of their religion. The streets of the city were reportedly filled with blood.

The conquest of Jerusalem was a major turning point in the history of the Crusades. It gave the crusaders control of the Holy City, and it also helped to legitimize their cause in the eyes of the Christian world. However, the massacre of the inhabitants of Jerusalem also tarnished the crusaders' reputation, and it made it more difficult for them to win the support of other Christians.

The conquest of Jerusalem also had a profound impact on the history of Islam. The massacre of the Muslims and Jews in Jerusalem was a major provocation, and it helped to fuel the rise of Islamic resistance to the crusaders. The First Crusade also led to the establishment of the Christian Kingdom of Jerusalem, which lasted for almost two centuries.

The anniversary of the conquest of Jerusalem is a reminder of the complex and often bloody history of the Holy Land. It is also a reminder of the importance of religious tolerance and respect for human life.

It was not a shining moment in Christian history.

-Unlikely Buddha 2023