The Crusades created a tumultuous period when Western armies, fired with the crusading spirit, wrestled most of the Holy Land from the Moslems. Holding it was a different matter, and the Crusaders never again match their initial success. The West, still somewhat barbaric, learned a great deal from their opponents, bringing back new knowledge from their travels. (Some historians believe the Crusades helped encourage a thirst for exploration among Europeans that helped foment the discovering of America.) The blade is flat, with two narrow fullers that both lighten and strengthen the blade. This is an effective sword to deal with mail armor. The flat blade will deliver a strong shearing blow and still has enough of a point to thrust when need be.