Saladin: Hero of Islam and the Crusades

Saladin: Hero of Islam

by Geoffrey Hindley

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4818 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	310 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Saladin (1137-1193) is one of the most famous and respected leaders in Islamic history. A devout Muslim, he was also a brilliant military strategist and a skilled diplomat. Saladin's life and career are a fascinating study in leadership, faith, and the complexities of the medieval world.

Early Life and Career

Saladin was born in Tikrit, Iraq, in 1137. His father was a Kurdish military commander, and his mother was an Arab. Saladin grew up to be a strong and skilled warrior. He began his military career in the service of the Zengid dynasty, which ruled over much of Syria and Iraq.

In 1169, Saladin was appointed vizier of Egypt by the Fatimid caliph. The Fatimids were the last Shia caliphate, and their rule was increasingly challenged by the Sunni Seljuk Turks. Saladin quickly proved to be a capable and effective vizier. He reformed the Egyptian army and administration, and he also expanded the Fatimid empire into Nubia and Yemen.

The Crusades

In 1187, the Third Crusade began. The crusaders were led by some of the most powerful kings in Europe, including Richard the Lionheart of England and Philip II of France. Saladin met the crusaders at the Battle of Hattin in 1187. The crusaders were heavily defeated, and Saladin captured Jerusalem. The capture of Jerusalem was a major blow to the crusaders, and it led to the signing of the Treaty of Ramla in 1192. The treaty allowed the crusaders to keep some of their coastal cities, but it also gave Saladin control of most of the Holy Land.

Saladin's victory over the crusaders made him a hero in the Muslim world. He was also respected by the crusaders for his courage and chivalry. Saladin died in Damascus in 1193, and he was succeeded by his brother, Al-Adil.

Legacy

Saladin is considered to be one of the greatest Muslim leaders in history. He was a devout Muslim, a brilliant military strategist, and a skilled diplomat. Saladin's life and career are a fascinating study in leadership, faith, and the complexities of the medieval world.

Saladin's legacy continues to inspire Muslims today. He is seen as a model of leadership, courage, and chivalry. Saladin's name is also associated with a number of charitable organizations and institutions, which provide aid to the poor and needy.

Saladin: Hero of Islam

by Geoffrey Hindley

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4818 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	310 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE