This study throws new light on both the history of the crusades and the mendicant orders in the thirteenth century. It describes the way in which the Franciscan and Dominican orders became involved in preaching the cross and examines their contribution to the crusading movement of the thirteenth century. It explains the role of the papacy in organizing recruitment campaigns through the propagandist activities of the mendicant friars. The book also shows the friars´ involvement in providing finance for the crusades, despite their vows of absolute poverty.