The Hospitallers were the first of the Secular Crusading Orders to be created, though they were only 'militarized' after the establishment of the Templars. The Hospitallers played a major role in the military struggle between Christendom and the Islamic World throughout the medieval and early modern periods.
The Hospitallers recruited from a wide section of society, but their structure and attitudes reflected the aristocratic based society of their day. They primarily campaigned on land during the first phase of their existence, and primarily at sea during their second phase. This book offers a full exploration of the significant role played by the Hospitallers in the cultural, political and economic development of the Christian Empire.
Born in 1944, David Nicolle worked in the BBC's Arabic service for a number of years before gaining an MA from the School of Oriental and African Studies, London, and a doctorate from Edinburgh University. He has written numerous books and articles on medieval and Islamic warfare, and has been a prolific author of Osprey titles for many years.
Christa Hook began her illustrating career in 1986, after studying under her father Richard Hook. Her work has featured extensively in the worlds of publishing and television and, having illustrated over 30 Osprey titles, she has established herse If as one of their most popular artists. Her illustrations combine the historian's attention to detail with the artist's sen se of drama and atmosphere, and they are sought after by collectors worldwide. Christa lives and works in East Sussex, England.
Templiers.org - Christophe Staf
All Rights Reserved
Membre de la Route du Patrimoine Templier - Templars Heritage Route
