Kingdom of Jerusalem

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the economics of the Kingdom of Jerusalem, the Latin Kingdom founded in 1099 as the result of Crusades to the Middle East. It describes the organization, history and geography of the Kingdom of Jerusalem and how these affected the Kingdom's economy. It then discusses the role of the King within the Kingdom and his effect on the economy. The paper also describes the minor role that agriculture had in its economic structure.

From the Paper:

"The organizational factors leading to the Kingdom of Jerusalem therefore played a key role in the economy. Because of its Latin and Christian roots, for instance, Italian merchants were given favorable terms of trade and came to dominate the economy and the trade which was predominant in the Kingdom of Jerusalem. Also, because of the lack of land and the unwillingness for the Nobles to maximize the potential of the land, instead relying on Muslim traditions and European feudal models, agriculture was not as prominent. Because a large mercenary military was needed for protection, there was therefore a need for a great deal of tribute and taxation to hire and fund the military aspects of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. Despite these factors which would contribute to a weaker economy, the Kingdom of Jerusalem was in a tenuous economic position but was able to prosper, especially in the 12th century, as a result of the trade and the realization of the potential of trading in the Middle East. This meant riches for the merchants, colonizers, Europeans, and nobles who could not only tax those from other places, but bring in new and valuable products to Europe. Thus trade was improved greatly between Europe and the East and the Kingdom of Jerusalem brought much of the Middle East and even China into a commercial relationship with Europe in which the Kingdom of Jerusalem and the European kingdoms also benefited."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Brehier, Louis. "Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem (1099-1291)." Catholic Encyclopedia. 2007. New Advent. 28 Apr. 2007 <http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08361a.htm>.
• Heidemann, Stefan. "Financing the Tribute to the Kingdom of Jerusalem." School of Oriental and African Studies (2007). 28 Apr. 2007 <http://journals.cambridge.org/download.php?file=%2FBSO%2FBSO70_01%2FS0041977X07000043a.pdf&code=3d42a41f051df2c24c8f885f98070afa>.
• Kjeilen, Tore. "Kingdom of Jerusalem." Encyclopedia of the Orient. 2007. 28 Mar. 2007 <http://lexicorient.com/e.o/jerusalem_kingd.htm>.
• Prawer, Joshua. The Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem: European Colonialism in the Middle Ages. Phoenix P, 2001.

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