TED-Ed: The imaginary king who changed the real world

The legend of Prester John, a mythical Christian king, influenced European exploration and diplomacy for centuries. Initially emerging during the Crusades, the myth inspired Europeans to seek alliances with supposed Christian kingdoms. Despite being a forgery, the legend persisted, leading explorers to search for Prester John's kingdom in Asia and Africa. Ethiopia was mistakenly identified as his realm, resulting in diplomatic ties with Europe. However, these relations soured, leading to conflict and the eventual fading of the legend.

What was the primary impact of the Prester John legend on European leaders?

• It inspired the age of exploration and diplomacy.

• It led to the discovery of America.

• It resulted in the unification of Europe.

• It caused the fall of the Roman Empire.

During the Crusades, why were Europeans interested in finding Prester John?

• To learn new technologies.

• To find a powerful Christian ally.

• To convert to a new religion.

• To establish trade routes.

How did the story of Prester John change as it traveled to Europe?

• It was turned into a children's story.

• It was proven to be a historical fact.

• It was forgotten and ignored.

• It became a tale of a great Christian army.

What was the outcome of the Portuguese explorers' search in Africa?

• They discovered a new continent.

• They found the real Prester John.

• They established a trade monopoly.

• They believed they found Prester John's descendants in Ethiopia.

How did the Ethiopian diplomats respond to the Portuguese belief in Prester John?

• They declared war on Portugal.

• They denied any connection.

• They played along for diplomatic benefits.

• They converted to Roman Catholicism.

What led to the eventual conflict between Ethiopia and Europe?

• Language barriers.

• Territorial disputes.

• Religious differences and conversion attempts.

• Trade disagreements.

What was the final fate of the Prester John legend?

• It became a popular novel.

• It led to the creation of a new religion.

• It was proven true by historians.

• It faded into oblivion over time.