The Third Crusade (1189–1192) was launched in response to the capture of Jerusalem by the Muslim leader Saladin in 1187. It aimed to reclaim the Holy City for Christendom and was led by three European monarchs: King Richard I of England (Richard the Lionheart), Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa of the Holy Roman Empire, and King Philip II of France.
The Crusade began with a series of setbacks. Frederick Barbarossa drowned during his journey, causing many of his troops to return home. Philip II and Richard I managed to reach the Holy Land, but their cooperation was strained due to political rivalry.
Despite these challenges, Richard proved to be a brilliant military leader. He successfully recaptured key coastal cities like Acre and achieved notable victories against Saladin, including the Battle of Arsuf in 1191. However, Richard was unable to retake Jerusalem.
In 1192, the Crusade ended with the Treaty of Jaffa, which allowed Christian pilgrims to visit the Holy City, though it remained under Muslim control. Despite its partial success, the Third Crusade did not achieve its main objective, but it did preserve a Christian presence in the region and boosted Richard's reputation as a heroic figure.
00:00 Introduction
01:06 Emperor Barbarossa's Crusade begins
02:04 The Byzantines
02:57 The siege of Philippopolis
03:49 The Byzantines engage the Crusaders
04:53 The conflicts in Asia
06:15 The death of Frederick
06:48 Richard and Philips Crusade
07:51 Richards conquest of Cyprus
08:20 Guy of Lusignan's quest
10:11 Reinforcements arrive
11:00 Richard's siege of Acre
12:51 Richard takes Acre
13:43 The Crusaders continue their journey
14:40 Saladin's men harass the Crusaders
16:23 The battle of Arsuf
19:34 The Crusade continues
20:48 The treaty