Saladin and the Fall of the Kingdom of Jerusalem

by Stanley Lane-Poole

Overview

This in-depth biography delves into the life and achievements of Saladin, a figure whose name continues to evoke admiration and respect across cultures and centuries. Known for his chivalry, justice, and unwavering leadership, Saladin's legacy as the unifier of the Islamic world during the time of the Crusades has made him a symbol of strength and nobility.

Born in 1138 to a Kurdish family, Saladin rose from obscurity to establish one of the most powerful and enduring dynasties of the medieval Islamic world. The book meticulously traces his early life, shaped by political intrigue and military training, and follows his ascent as he consolidated power in Egypt, Syria, and Mesopotamia. Through meticulous planning, military prowess, and diplomatic acumen, he forged a united front against external threats, reclaiming Jerusalem and redefining the course of Islamic history.

This work draws from rare, contemporary Arabic and Western sources, providing an unparalleled perspective on Saladin's life and times. It examines his complex relationships with key figures of the Crusades, including Richard the Lionheart, and explores the cultural, religious, and political dynamics that shaped the medieval world. Saladin's ability to balance pragmatism and piety, along with his reputation for fairness-even among his adversaries-remains a focal point of the narrative.

Enhanced by illustrations, maps, and insights from primary accounts, this book offers readers a vivid portrayal of the man behind the legend. It captures not only his battles and conquests but also his dedication to faith, learning, and the betterment of his people. Whether you are a historian, student, or enthusiast of medieval history, this biography illuminates the legacy of a leader whose virtues transcend time.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9789366088433
Publisher:	Qadeem Press
Publication date:	12/23/2024
Pages:	532
Product dimensions:	6.69(w) x 9.61(h) x 1.07(d)

Read an Excerpt

THE LIFE OF SALADIN. CHAPTER I. Saladin's World. IN the year 1132 a broken army, flying before its pursuers, reached the left bank of the Tigris. On the other side, upon a steep cliff, stood the impregnable Fortress of Tekrit, defended landwards by a deep moat and accessible only by secret steps cut in the rock and leading from the heart of the citadel to the water's edge. The one hope of the fugitives was to attain the refuge of the castle, and their fate turned upon the disposition of its warden. Happily he chose the friendly part, and provided a ferry by which they crossed to safety. The ferry boats of the Tigris made the fortunes of the house of Saladin. The flying leader who owed his life to their timely succour was Zengy, the powerful lord of Mosil; and in later days, when triumph returned to his standards, he did not forget the debt he owed Tekrit, but, ever mindful of past services, carried itswarden onward and upward on the wave of his progress. This warden was Saladin's father. Ayyub (in English plain Job), surnamed after the fashion of the Saracens Nejm-ed-din, or " Star of the Faith," the fortunate commandant at this critical moment, although an oriental and a Mohammedan, belonged to the same great Aryan stock as ourselves, being neither Arab nor Turk, but a Kurd of the Rawadiya clan, born at their village of Ajda- nakan near Dawin in Armenia. From time immemorial the Kurds have led the same wild pastoral life in the mountain tracts between Persia and Asia Minor. In their clannishness, their love of thieving, their fine chivalrous sense of honour and hospitality, and their unquestioned courage, they resembled the Arabs of the " Days of Ignorance " before Islam, or theHighland Scots before the reforms of Marshal Wade. They have ever been a gallant and warlike...