The Crusades have officially begun, and let's be honest: the crusaders have let us down a little bit. The People's Crusade was a nightmare, and the pillaging of Jewish communities in Rhineland was also not great. Okay it was pretty awful.

But what happens when an army of crusaders is led by a man with pious character, integrity, and (apparently) a head of flowing, golden locks? Well, we get today's feature: Godfrey of Bouillon. A key military figure of the First Crusade and first political leader of Jerusalem.

Speaking of the Crusades, we want to hear from the people: How are you enjoying the Crusades series so far? Should we stay the pace, or take a break and cover some different topics? Let us know in the comments!!

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The stage is finally set: the Western Christians have heard the call to the Holy Land, and have responded with resounding affirmation.

The first of the waves of Europeans to head for Jerusalem wasn't quite what you'd imagine though. Led by the charismatic open-air preacher Peter the Hermit, a band of thousands of untrained soldiers headed East to participate in the early crusade. The results were...mixed to say the least.

Join us as we explore the honestly kind of terrible People's Crusade. We'll also discuss whether we've been kind to the Anabaptists, what our next Chump Talk should be, and whether Taylor's mom needs to wear sunglasses.

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Blah blah Byzantines, blah blah Seljuks, when do we get to the FIGHTING???

How about NOW.

Well, sorta.

Finally our story finds us back in the West, where Pope Urban II will stir affections far and wide, compelling the feudal Franks to storm the Holy Land.

But what were the motivations of these war-hungry comrades? Fame? Piety? Dollar bills?? You'll have to tune in to find out.

You'll also find out all about skull shavers, Myrtle Beach, and whether golfing is cool yet (it's not).

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