#847 - L'intrigo che fece deviare la Quarta Crociata verso Costantinopoli
Summary
This episode details the pivotal deviation of the Fourth Crusade from its original goal of reaching the Holy Land to targeting Constantinople. It explores the complex motivations behind this shift, including Pope Innocent III's diplomatic maneuvers, Venetian financial interests, and the political ambitions of Boniface of Montferrat. A central focus is the role of Alexios Angelos, the deposed Byzantine prince, who promised immense wealth and military support to the crusaders in exchange for restoring him to the throne.
Topics discussed
Intro and Amazon sponsorship
Overview of the Fourth Crusade's deviation
Book recommendation: When Venice Destroyed the Roman Empire
The decline of the Byzantine Empire and relations with the West
Pope Innocent III and the failed union of the churches
Boniface of Montferrat's role and absence from Zara
The escape of Alexios Angelos and his family connections
The conspiracy to install Alexios as Emperor
Alexios's promises to the Pope and initial rejection
Boniface's proposal to the Crusaders at Zara
The siege of Zara and wintering of the fleet
Alexios's inflated financial and military promises
Acceptance of the plan by Crusader leaders and Venice
Pope's ambiguous stance and lifting of excommunication
Amazon flexible work sponsorship
Convincing the common soldiers and the split at Corfu
Final deviation of the Crusade towards Constantinople
Outro and thanks to patrons
Amazon and Checkout.com sponsorships
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