Was the first crusade a success and why is its legacy relevant today?

Yes, the First Crusade (1096-1099) is generally considered a success for the Crusaders, as they captured Jerusalem and established several Christian states in the Holy Land. Its legacy is relevant today due to the enduring religious and cultural tensions it created between Christians and Muslims, which continue to influence geopolitical dynamics in the region. Additionally, the Crusade's impact on trade, exploration, and cultural exchange laid foundational elements for the later development of Europe during the Middle Ages.