Saladin

Sultan of Egypt

Tikrit, Iraq

March 4, 1193 Damascus, Syria

Ismat ad-Din Khatun, Shamsa

Saladin, famous Sultan of Egypt, and founder of the ‘Ayyubid Dynasty’, began his military career with a minor role, assisting his uncle Shirkuh. However, soon he proved his ability, and was given charge of more important battles. After Shirkuh's death, he took over as the vizier of the ‘Fatimid Caliphate’ and waged several wars in this capacity, gradually increasing his power in the Caliphate. He was in particular, effective against the English Crusaders, defeating them in almost every war fought. He reached the height of his power when al-Adid, Caliph of the ‘Fatimid Dynasty’ died, and this shrewd leader formed an alliance with rival ‘Abbasids’. Also, when his mentor, Nur ad-Din died, he went on to conquer the whole of Syria, attacking each city one by one. His major victory came against King Richard the Lionheart during the 'Battle of Hatin', when Palestine once again became a part of a Muslim dynasty, after eighty-eight years. When he died, he left all his possessions to the poor citizens of his dynasty, leaving nothing behind to give him a decent burial. Even after his death he is held in high regard, not just in Muslim countries, but also by countries in the west, where people remember him for his generosity and kindness