Between 1100 and 1143 the ability of their leaders was the main reason why the crusader states survived’. How far do you agree?
During the years 1100 to 1143, there were many factors that helped the crusader states to survive, but I believe that the most important one that guaranteed their survival was indeed the ability of the leaders.

The ability of the leaders was demonstrated a year after the capture of Jerusalem in 1099,they established a feudal system which would devolve them great power in return for their support. Leaders set up having vassals, which helped them to expand their power and allegiances in order to increase their chances of survival. Thereafter, between 1100 and 1110 Baldwin I then focused on consolidating his hold in the Levant through raiding and gaining ransoms and wealth from defeating his enemies: and this was significant since it enabled the crusader states to prosper and develop in their premature years. Furthermore, Tancred’s military and financial stability between 1105 and 1110: bringing security to the principality of Antioch. He only engaged the enemy when he needed to and did his best to prevent defeat, a highlight being the Battle of Artah in 1105 against Ridwan. In addition, Baldwin and Tancred cohesively kept day-to-day affairs in order: They pursued trade pacts, integrated into the Near Eastern World and formed limited-term truces even with cooperative military alliances with their Muslim neighbours.

Leaders were triumphant in appointing successors even in problematic situations: for Baldwin II who had 4 daughters (hence no male heir) strategically married his eldest daughter, Melisende, to the Fulk of Anjou: a powerful ally, one who would protect and safeguard Melisende's inheritance as Queen along with stability in Jerusalem after his own death in 1331.This was crucial in establishing the dynastic line for the future