Women in the Crusades

Lasting between 1095 and 1291, the Crusades we a series of religious wars in an attempt for the Christian Church to claim the Holy Land. In the time between 1095 and 1291, there were eight attempts to claim the city of Jerusalem as well as the surrounding lands. There was also a series of smaller crusades after the initial eight had ended.

During this time, women engaged in the Crusades in a variety of roles. Noble women acted in a diplomatic role, organizing expeditions, and hiring soldiers. Women also helped with the construction of fortifications and siege material. Women were finally also involved in the support and hygiene of the men fighting, bringing clean water, and washing clothes to prevent lice being spread.