Review of Byzantine Empire and the Crusades

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts related to the Byzantine Empire and the Crusades.

Alexius I

Byzantine Emperor during the time of the First Crusade, faced threats from pagans, Seljuks, and Normans.

Pilgrimage

A journey to a sacred place, often for the purpose of obtaining holy relics or spiritual benefits.

Indulgence

A document that could wipe sins, offered to crusaders, but rare and expensive.

Penitence

The act of atoning for sins through prayer, pilgrimage, or torture.

Muslim Capture of Jerusalem

Jerusalem was captured by Muslims in 638, significant for its association with the prophet Muhammad's night prayer.

Dome of the Rock

An important Islamic shrine in Jerusalem, where it is believed that the prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven.

Jizya

A tax required of non-Muslims, such as Christians, to visit Jerusalem under Muslim rule.

Fatimids and Abbasids

The two rival caliphs during the period of Muslim rule over Jerusalem.

Battle of Manzikert

Fought in 1071, significant for its role in the Byzantine Empire's decline and the call for crusade assistance.

Papal Relationship

The improving relationship between the papacy and Byzantine Empire, highlighted by Alexius's plea for help in 1095.