Charters and Letters of the First Crusade in Bloomington, MN

The collection of 11th century texts includes a series of letters highlighting the plight of Christians under Turkish oppression and the call for a crusade to reclaim Jerusalem. Emperor Alexius I Komnenos appeals to Count Robert of Flanders for military assistance, detailing the atrocities faced by Christians. Pope Urban II urges the faithful in Flanders to join the cause, promising spiritual rewards for those who participate. Additionally, Count Stephen of Chartres shares his experiences during the campaign, including victories and the challenges faced by the crusaders. The letters reflect the fervent religious zeal and communal effort to restore Christian dominance in the Holy Land. These letters and charters are a representative snapshot of mindset of the crusaders as they were actively making their way through Asia Minor and into the Levant.