The Eighth Crusade of 1270 CE was, like the Seventh Crusade (1248-1254 CE), led by the French king Louis IX (r. 1226-1270 CE). As previously, the idea was to attack and defeat the Muslims first in Egypt and then either reconquer or negotiate control of key Christian sites in the Levant, including Jerusalem. Tunis was decided upon as the first target, from where the Crusaders could then attack Egypt. The plan was dealt the fatal blow of Louis IX's death from illness in August 1270 CE, and the campaign was abandoned before it had even properly begun.
More about: Eighth CrusadeDefinition
Timeline
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1270The Eighth Crusade is formed to attack Muslim-held cities in North Africa. Led by Louis IX, it is not successful.
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Jul 1270The army of the Eighth Crusade lands at Tunis in North Africa.
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25 Aug 1270Louis IX dies of dysentery at Tunis during the Eighth Crusade, which is, consequently, abandoned.
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Nov 1270Charles of Anjou leads the withdrawal of the Eighth Crusade army from Tunis to Sicily. Many ships are lost in a storm.
