The Livonian Crusade was a series of military campaigns in the 13th century aimed at converting the pagan peoples of the Baltic region, particularly in present-day Latvia and Estonia. Initiated by the Catholic Church, these crusades were led by various orders, including the Teutonic Knights and the Sword Brothers, who sought to expand Christian influence and territory. The crusade began around 1198 and continued into the 1230s, resulting in the establishment of several Christian states. The campaigns often involved violent confrontations with local tribes, leading to significant cultural and religious changes in the region, as well as the eventual integration of these areas into the Christian world.