Saturday, October 4, 2008

Salah Al Din

Salah Al Din was an influential leader and led an inspirational life as the sultan of Egypt and Syria. His life impacted many and has even led some to live their lives to accomplish the things that he did, such as Saddam Hussein. Saladin, as he is better known today, is recognized for his chivalrous actions toward those he captured and to those who lived around him.
Saladin was born a Kurdish Muslim and practiced as such. He was led by his uncle, Sherrga, into war and came out the leader of his country after the death of his uncle. After the death of Sherrga, Saladin was appointed vizier of Egypt in 1169. This event caused his glorious reign to begin, and not stop until 1193 . This reign is known as one of the most chivalrous times in history because of the acts of Saladin. "Saladin is one of very few personages of the time of the Crusades that has managed to be positively described in both Western and Eastern sources. With his high position among his Western opponents, he has become a figure that have fascinated Western writers."
The first interaction Saladin is faced with is when his uncle, the present vizier of Egypt, asks him to ride along with him into Egypt. Though Saladin does not want to go, he does so willingly. While on this trip, his uncle dies after a party from eating too much. This propels Saladin into power since he is the only heir left to the throne. He is still young, but he takes his responsibility as a man, and takes the crown and thus begins his reign over Egypt .
Saladin is most well known for his defense against the 3rd Crusade. As the Crusaders were invading attempting to defeat the Muslims, there was a truce made between the Crusaders and Saladin. Raynald, the leader of the 3rd Crusade, broke the truce by attacking the caravans of Saladin. After being asked to stop, he once again attacked a caravan. This caravan, however, carried with it Saladin's sister, whom Raynald captured and perhaps raped. This action launched Saladin over the edge in rage. His defense is to attack Raynald, crushing him, and eventually killing Raynald with his bear hands. He does so and therefore ends the 3rd Crusade.
This event is the one of the few points in history that we see the cruelty of Saladin. He is well known for being a kind, chivalrous leader while still conquering and spreading his kingdom. This man ruled well over Egypt, while still maintaining his kingdom and respect from his people.
Stanley, Diane. Saladin:Noble Prince of Islam. Harper Collins. 2002. New York.
Ali, Tariq. The Book of Saladin:A Novel. Verso. 1999. New York.