Dr Steve Tibble unpacks the true history of the Knights Templar, challenging centuries of myth and conspiracy to reveal their real legacy - particularly in Britain. He explores their origins during the Crusades, the evolution of their military and religious roles, and the dramatic events that led to their downfall. Tibble also examines how their story has been distorted over time, fueling modern legends and fictional portrayals. Drawing from his book Templars – The Knights Who Made Britain, he offers fresh insights into one of history’s most misunderstood orders.

1. What should students keep in mind when engaging with this history?
2. What were the origins of the Knights Templar?
3. What was their role/objectives?
4. How did they grow their numbers and support in the early years of the order?
5. Can you tell us about the origin of the British Templars?
6. Do they follow a similar development to their neighbours on the continent?
7. To what extent were the Templars divided into soldiers/domestic operatives working in the host nation?
8. How did they manage international relations? War mongers of the east but peace-mongers of the west.
9. Expert diplomats with a central core of trust.
10. The first proper European standing army since the Roman legion.
11. How important was having this standing army to European power in the Levant?
12. To what extent were the British Templars considered ‘Agents of the Crown’ under Henry II?
13. Deeply embedded in the English state.
14. What relationship did the Templars have with Richard I?
15. Why do the Templars get a reputation for being ‘God’s bankers’? What were the dangers of becoming effective financiers?
16. What role do the Templars play in England under Henry III? How effective were they as diplomats?
17. What did the collapse of the campaign in the East mean for the orders at home and abroad?
18. What led to the destruction of the Templars in the early 1300s?
19. Why was it so different in France?
20. What was the legacy of the Templar order in Britain and abroad?
21. How should we remember the Templars and the British Templars?

This resource is free to all registered basic users. Please Login or Join the HA.