Step2-Saracens and the Second and Third Crusade
Christian victories did not stop Saracen military endeavors in Palestine. Saracen armies advanced with lightning quickness and reconquered the Crusader Kingdom of Edessa. Emperor Conrad III and King Louis VII of France led another Crusading Army which attacked Damascus. However, disagreements and a Turkish Army on the march forced the Crusaders to retreat. This army accomplished very little. The Third Crusade forced some set backs on Saracen forces which now held a relatively favorable position in Palestine, having conquered Jerusalem by the mid-twelfth century. An army led by King Richard the Lionhearted captured Acre and won a victory at Arsuf against Saladin's forces. As a result, the Crusader Kingdoms were reinstated and safety was guaranteed for pilgrims.