The motivation behind CrusadeCon is to bring together leading academic authorities and interested parties alike, for a one-day event focused on this important but largely under-served historical subject. This is inspired by James Arlett, lecturer of history for the History, Heritage and Archaeology BA(Hons) degree at Strode College who, in January 2023, died following a short battle with cancer.

James’ work and students meant a great deal to him, it was both a vocation and a passion. His academic specialism, stemming from his postgraduate studies at Royal Holloway, was The Crusades. He felt it was important that more people engage with, research and add to the conversation around those conflicts, the repercussions of which are still felt today. James was proud to work on a BA course offered away from a major university site in the South West, as access is often more difficult for those in rural areas.

Together, James’s wife, friends and colleagues decided that organising and holding this conference in his memory was a fitting tribute. The hope is that anyone who is interested in the topic will be able to attend, hear from leading crusade historians, and access networking opportunities.

CrusadeCon will provide many volunteer opportunities for students of Strode College, across several disciplines.

All profits from CrusadeCon will go to Macmillan Cancer Support, and there will be collection buckets available on the day should you wish to donate.