Discuss the reasons for the collapse of the Crusader states.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for the collapse of the Crusader states. Candidates may consider that state loyalty was determined by the leader’s original vassal state and that leaders were prone to manipulation by their European monarchs. Candidates may argue that the distinct hierarchy in the states and the lack of cooperation between them was a reason for their failure. They may also claim that Jerusalem was not dominant enough to control the other states, a fact that contributed to the collapse of the Crusader States. The failure of the Second Crusade because of the on-going lack of manpower, the fall of Jerusalem in 1187 and the consequent failure of the Third Crusade may also be discussed. Furthermore, candidates may consider that the resurgence of Islamic power contributed to the collapse of the Crusader states.