: According to William of Tyre (1130-1186), How did the Knights Templar begin? What did they promise to do and how did they promise to live? How did they end up? Why did they end up so differently from how they started?
Sample Solution
According to William of Tyre, the Knights Templar began in 1119 when eight knights led by Hugh de Payens promised to protect pilgrims on their way to and from Jerusalem. They promised to live a pious life and dedicated their service to God. Over time, they grew into a strong religious order and amassed considerable wealth through donations from various European leaders. However, their success ultimately caused jealousy among other powerful figures in Europe which resulted in rumors of corruption against them. In 1307, King Philip IV of France had all the Templars arrested and charged them with heresy; some were burned at the stake while others were imprisoned or forced out of the country. The order was disbanded two years later by Pope Clement V as part of an agreement between France and the Papacy.