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The Fifth Crusade: triumph, disaster and the battle for Egypt

The Fifth Crusade: triumph, disaster and the battle for Egypt

Thomas Smith explains how the crusaders came astonishingly close to conquering Egypt during the dramatic Fifth Crusade

Emily Briffett

Published: August 3, 2026 at 1:52 PM

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In 1217, crusaders launched an ambitious campaign to conquer Egypt, believing it held the key to reclaiming Jerusalem and securing the Holy Land.

Historian and author Thomas Smith tells Emily Briffett why the crusaders targeted Egypt, charts the dramatic naval assault that preceded the siege of Damietta, and explores how a promising campaign turned into one of the greatest missed opportunities in crusading history.

Authors

Emily BriffettSenior content producer (podcasts)

Emily Briffett is senior content producer (podcasts) at HistoryExtra