Nearly 1,000 years ago today, the Crusades began - instigated and led by a Pope; they lasted for about 200 years, and there was 7 in total.
Ten of thousands went to the Middle East/Holy Land to free Christian holy places - like Jerusalem - from the Muslim Turks.
Savagery and butchery were common place, and the European noblemen who organised the Crusades were often more interested in the land and treasures available - than the will of Rome.
Over the past millennium, the friction created by the Crusades has continued unabated.
It's worth remembering though that people from current EU countries - and those supporting Rome - were the aggressors.
And even UK insignia still evidences our pride today - in our major roles, during most Crusades.