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The Life and Legacy of Saladin

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Saladin, a Kurdish military leader, rose to power in Egypt and became a key figure during the Crusades. His strategic prowess led to the recapture of Jerusalem and a significant shift from Shia to Sunni rule in Egypt. Saladin's chivalrous conduct and diplomatic skills, especially during the Third Crusade, left a lasting legacy. His death in 1193 marked the end of an era, but his impact on history remains profound.

Early Life and Rise of Saladin

Saladin, born An-Nasir Salah ad-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, came into the world around 1137 or 1138 in Tikrit, which is now part of modern-day Iraq. Raised in the nurturing environment of Damascus, he mastered both Kurdish, his ethnic language, and Arabic, the lingua franca of the region. His military career commenced under the guidance of his uncle, Asad al-Din Shirkuh, a prominent commander in the service of Nur al-Din, the Zengid emir of Damascus and Aleppo. Saladin's military acumen became apparent during the Battle of al-Babein in 1164, where he commanded the right flank of the Zengid forces, contributing significantly to the defeat of the Crusader armies.
12th-century warriors on horseback with commander in chainmail and conical helmet, holding shield, amidst a desert landscape with palm trees.

Saladin's Ascension to Power in Egypt

Saladin's journey to power in Egypt was marked by political and military maneuvering. In 1169, after the elimination of the Vizier Shawar—a move Saladin orchestrated—he assumed the role of vizier following the demise of his uncle Shirkuh. Despite being a Sunni Muslim, Saladin was appointed by the Shia Fatimid Caliph al-Adid, a strategic choice aimed at leveraging Saladin's Kurdish background to counterbalance the prevailing Turkish dominance. Saladin's formal appointment on 26 March 1169 signified the commencement of his ascent to power. His leadership was further cemented when he repulsed a combined Crusader-Byzantine assault near Damietta, reinforcing his authority in Egypt.

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00

______, whose birth name was An-Nasir Salah ad-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, was born around 1137 or 1138 in ______, present-day Iraq.

Saladin

Tikrit

01

During the ______ in 1164, Saladin led the right wing of the Zengid forces and played a crucial role in overcoming the ______ forces.

Battle of al-Babein

Crusader

02

Saladin's religious affiliation vs. his appointer

Sunni Muslim Saladin was appointed vizier by Shia Fatimid Caliph al-Adid.

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