The Crusades were a series of Holy Wars launched by the Christian states of Europe against the Saracens. The term 'Saracen' was the word used to describe a Muslim during the time of the Crusades. In 1095, Pope Urban II delivered his infamous speech in front of a large crowd at the Council of Clermont, urging them to engage in a Christian “holy war” to liberate the Holy Land (Jerusalem) from Muslim rule. For their efforts, Urban II promised a complete remission (forgiveness) of sins. The Pope's preaching led to thousands immediately affixing the cross to their garments - the name Crusade given to the Holy Wars came from old French word 'crois' meaning 'cross'. Thus the word "crusade" literally means "going to the Cross."
