The Crusaders sacked Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade in 1204, deviating from their goal of reclaiming Jerusalem. This led to significant devastation in the Byzantine Empire and strained relations between the Eastern and Western churches. The event emphasized the political motivations that influenced the Crusades.
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During the Fourth Crusade, the Crusaders sacked Constantinople instead of Jerusalem. This event marked a significant deviation from their initial goal and led to severe consequences for the Byzantine Empire. The sack highlighted the complexities and motivations behind the Crusades. ;