Were The Crusaders Motivated By Greed Or Religion?

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Some of the most widely-repeated interpretations of the Crusaders are that they are viewed as either motivated by greed or religion. According to Riley-Smith, historians throughout history have had various flipping beliefs as to what motivated the Crusaders on their raiding. Riley-Smith believes that views change "to reflect the mood of the times." He disagrees with the view that the Crusaders were motivated by greed because there is no direct evidence to bolster the contention that the Crusaders took these rash measures "to prevent the break-up of their estates" or because they were attracted "by the hope of adventure, spoils, and land overseas." He believes that many historians have disregarded motivation from religion because of a disdain

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