The Crusades were influenced by a variety of different people throughout their duration. For example, Pope Urban II, who controlled the Church at the time of the First Crusade was able to rally his followers to a common goal, which distracted from the infighting that was occurring in Europe as a result of Feudalism. Another crucial person involved in Crusading was Alexius, who requested troops from the Pope to combat the impending Turkish threat. Raymond of Saint-Gilles, Godfrey of Bouillon, Hugh of Vermandois and Bohemond of Taranto were also vital people to the first crusade, because they lead the armies that would eventually conquer the holy land, and seize it for the Christians for a short time.
Above: an image depicting an artists impression of The Council of Clermont.
Above: an image showing a quote from Pope Urban II.