# Albigensian Crusade proclaimed (1208)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/1208-albigensian-crusade-proclaimed
Location: Languedoc

A papally backed crusade targeted Cathar heresy and southern lords. Within the broader Capetian France period, The Capetian monarchy expanded rapidly under Philip Augustus and his successors. Royal courts, taxation, Gothic culture and crusading flourished as the crown absorbed territories and strengthened institutions. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Philip II Augustus (King of France). Albigensian Crusade proclaimed mattered because religion was closely tied to political legitimacy, community identity and public institutions. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Albigensian Crusade proclaimed mattered because religion was closely tied to political legitimacy, community identity and public institutions.

Ruler at the time: [Philip II Augustus](https://history-france.com/rulers/philip-ii-augustus)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Albigensian Crusade proclaimed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Albigensian+Crusade+proclaimed&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Albigensian Crusade proclaimed](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Albigensian+Crusade+proclaimed)
- [Wikipedia — Timeline of French history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_French_history)