ABSTRACT
This chapter examines Godfrey’s year-long tenure as ruler of the new state founded by the First Crusaders in Jerusalem. It firstly explores the circumstances in which he was appointed to rule Jerusalem in July 1099, before discussing the nature of the authority and title that he assumed upon his appointment. It suggests that while Godfrey was granted the highest authority in the nascent polity, he did not assume the title of king. His adoption of a non-royal title is ascribed to a number of factors, including the theological concerns of those present in Jerusalem, but it is suggested that Godfrey himself might have recognised the political expedience of the move. The chapter charts Godfrey’s efforts to expand the new state, and considers his involvement in the foundation of its institutional framework. The last part of the chapter examines the circumstances of Godfrey’s death in July 1100, and sets out how he was succeeded by his younger brother, Baldwin, who was inaugurated king of Jerusalem on Christmas Day later that same year.
