Intended as a guide to the Crusades, this book tackles the most important questions surrounding the first four crusades which took place from the late 11th to the early 13th century. It answers what factors led to the crusades?; why was the first crusade successful?; how were the crusader states and military orders organised?; what accounted for the failure of later crusades and to what extent did the crusading ideal change? It is hoped that this resource will enable students to not only gain an understanding of the forces at work in Europe and the Middle East at the time of the Crusades, but also to develop their arguments based on the knowledge they have acquired. This book is one of a series which is intended as a guide to student's successful transition from GCSE to AS and A Level study. Each book offers a structured approach to its topic, from general overview and analysis of key issues through to reasoned arguments and conclusions. Practical study hints and tips, activities and exam-style questions and suggestions are given.