Teutonic Knights facts for kids
The Teutonic Knights were a special group of Catholic knights. They were like a military club with religious rules. This group started a long time ago, at the end of the 12th century. They formed in a place called Acre in Palestine, during a time known as the Crusades.
Today, the Teutonic Knights are no longer a military group. They are now a religious order, which means they focus on church work. Their main base is in Vienna, Austria.
In the year 1226, a leader named Konrad from Masovia invited the Teutonic Knights. He wanted them to help fight against some tribes in Prussia who were not Christian. The Knights won these battles quickly. They then made their own country in Prussia and were sometimes called Prussians.
Over time, the Knights became very powerful. This made them a threat to the country of Poland, which was not very strong then. The power of the Teutonic Knights was finally broken in a big battle. This was the Battle of Tannenberg in the year 1410.
Contents
History of the Knights
Starting the Order
The Teutonic Knights began as a hospital brotherhood. They helped sick and injured pilgrims during the Crusades. These were wars fought by Christians to take back holy lands. Over time, they became a military order. This meant they were both monks and soldiers. Their main job was to protect pilgrims and fight for their faith.
Life as a Knight
Being a Teutonic Knight was a serious commitment. Knights took vows like monks, promising to live simply and obey their leaders. They wore white cloaks with a black cross. They were skilled warriors, but also dedicated to their religious duties. They built many strong castles across Europe. These castles helped them control their lands and protect their people.
Building a State
After their success in Prussia, the Knights built a strong state. They brought in settlers and developed towns and farms. They became a major power in the Baltic Sea region. Their state was known for its strong castles and organized government. They also controlled important trade routes.
The Decline of Power
The Teutonic Knights' power grew, but so did their enemies. Their neighbors, especially Poland and Lithuania, saw them as a threat. The Battle of Tannenberg in 1410 was a huge defeat for the Knights. They lost many knights and their Grand Master. This battle marked the beginning of their decline. They continued to lose land and influence over the next centuries.
Images for kids
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Extent of the Teutonic Order in 1300.
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Hermann von Salza, the fourth Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights (1209–1239)
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Tannhäuser in the habit of the Teutonic Knights, from the Codex Manesse
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Frederick II allows the order to invade Prussia, by P. Janssen
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Map of the Teutonic state in 1260
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Teutonic Order castle in Paide, Estonia
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Pomerelia (Pommerellen) while part of the monastic state of the Teutonic Knights
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Map of the Teutonic state in 1410
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Map of the Teutonic state in 1466
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Castle of the Teutonic Order in Bad Mergentheim
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14th-century brass stamp with the shield insignia.
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In the 16th century, officers of the order would quarter their family arms with the order's arms.
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Example of the Deutschmeisterwappen on the gate of the Bad Mergentheim residence
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Coat of arms of Prince Charles Alexander of Lorraine, Grand Master from 1761 to 1780.
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Modern (20th century) medal
See also
In Spanish: Orden Teutónica para niños
