Well sure, the expansion of the Arab Islamics was the reason given to the Crusaders and there was definately some religous/political importance in the decision, however it was known to be a pointless death-mission and they sent the knights off anyways. From the documents we read for the history class I took it seemed like everyone other than people working with the Pope thought it was just to get rid of the brutes.

Old men, fear me! You will shatter under my ruthless apathetic assault!

Uschi - 2
Old Men - 0

"I am convinced that this world is of no importance, and that the only people who care about dates are imbeciles and Spanish teachers." -- Jean Arp, 1921

"If Jesus came back and saw what people are doing in his name, he would never never stop throwing up." - Max von Sydow, "Hannah and Her Sisters"