5.1.4 Innocent's Determination to Lead the Crusade

What role did Pope Innocent III hope to play in the Fourth Crusade

He hoped to be both spiritual and strategic leader, shaping the crusade under papal control

What was a major weakness of Innocent III’s plan from the beginning

He lacked support from powerful secular rulers like kings of emperors

What city did the crusaders attack in 1202 against Innocent III’s orders

Zara

How did Innocent III try to stop the attack on Zara

He sent a letter forbidding the attack and threatened excommunication

What happened to Innocent’s letter forbidding the attack on Zara

It was suppressed by the crusade leaders and not shared with the army

What efforts did Innocent III make to stop the diversion to Constantinople?

He sent letters, excommunication threats, and envoys prohibiting attacks on Christian lands.

Why were Innocent III’s messages to the crusaders ineffective?

They were suppressed, and many crusaders were unaware of the pope’s commands or excommunications.

What was the final blow to Innocent III’s authority over the crusade?

His legate was sent away to Acre, leaving the crusade without any direct papal representative.