Saladin | Biography, Achievements, Crusades | Medieval Islamic Empire Saladin, also known as Salah al-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, was a Muslim military leader and statesman who lived in the 12th century. He is best known for his role in the Muslim recapture of Jerusalem during the Crusades and his reputation as a noble ruler. He was the first Muslim leader to unite the Muslim states of Egypt and Syria under one rule, and he is considered one of the greatest military leaders in Islamic history. Saladin's life and legacy have also had a lasting impact on the Middle East and the world, making him a significant figure in both Islamic and world history. His leadership, administration, and military strategies are studied even today as an example of an able and just ruler. Early Life of Saladin Saladin was born in Tikrit, Iraq in 1138, into a prominent Kurdish family with a long history of military service. His father, Najm ad-Din Ayyub, was a respected warrior and officer in the court of the Seljuk Turks. Also, his uncle Shirkuh was an elite military leader under Imad al-Din Zangi, The ruler of Syria at that time. From a young age, Saladin trained in the art of war and joined an army commanded by his uncle Shirkuh, who served Zangi’s son and heir, Nur al-Din, on a military expedition to Egypt. In 1196, Saladin became the commander of Nur al-Din’s forces in Egypt. In 1171, after the death of the last Fatimid Caliphate, Saladin was appointed as the governor of Egypt. He quickly established himself as a capable leader and began to expand his territory. He was able to gain control of the Nile Delta and brought the cities of Cairo and Alexandria under his control. In late 1171, Saladin declared himself the
Saladin | Biography, Achievements, Crusades | Medieval Islamic Empire Saladin, also known as Salah al-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, was a Muslim military leader and statesman who lived in the 12th century. He is best known for his role in the Muslim recapture of Jerusalem during the Crusades and his reputation as a noble ruler. He
