Discuss the reasons for the failure of the Second Crusade (1145–1149).

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for the failure of the Second Crusade. Candidates may refer to the reduced size of the Crusading forces prior to the conflict; the division of Crusader armies, with different crusades led by Louis VII and Conrad III; the disagreements amongst military leaders; poor relations with the Byzantine Empire; the lack of understanding of the nature and strength of Muslim opposition; the weakness of the Crusader states; and poor strategy such as the decision to attack Damascus. While other relevant factors such as the reasons for the failure of crusades more generally may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question.