While the Crusades were not a definitive military success, they helped to bring about the end of the Dark Ages in Europe.

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Crusaders were absolved of sin and promised eternal salvation for fighting the Catholic Church's holy war.

The Crusades

King Louis VIII of France leads the Second Crusade to the Holy Land but fails to overcome Muslim opposition.

Duke Godfrey was crowned King of Jerusalem after the Christian army expelled the Muslims from the Holy Land.

This installment of "Dark Ages" looks at the life of Frankish Chieftain Childeric, who would help the Romans repel invasions from Visigoth invaders and ultimately become king of the Frankish tribes.

The Hagia Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul offers a light feeling when you first walk in the door, unlike the dark churches of other parts of Europe.