The Teutonic Knights played a significant role in medieval European history as a military and religious order founded in the late 12th century. Initially established to aid Christian pilgrims in the Holy Land, they shifted focus to the Baltics in the 13th century, aiming to convert the pagan populations and expand Christian territories. They established important settlements and cities, particularly in modern-day Poland and the Baltic States, influencing trade, culture, and governance in these regions. Their military campaigns and involvement in the Northern Crusades also marked an important chapter in the socio-political landscape of medieval Europe.