This paper looks at the Knights Templar, a
military and
religious order, founded in the early 12 century, for the purposes of protecting Christian
pilgrims who were traveling to
holy places after the Catholic conquest of the Holy Land. In particular it analyzes whether the Knights Templar, condoned by the Catholic Church, represents a religious order committed to the seemingly
opposing principles and ideas of Christian peace and brotherhood of man while remaining dedicated to war and death. It also attempts to document the manner in which the Catholic Church has justified this order in spite of its' allegiance to opposing principles. Outline Historical Overview Criticisms of the Knights Templar Persecution and Destruction of the Templars Conclusions