Saladin, founder of the Ayyubid Sultanate (b. 1137)

Al-Nasir Salah al-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, revered simply as Salah ad-Din or Saladin, stands as one of history's most formidable and influential figures. Born in 1137, this Sunni Muslim Kurd would not only become the inaugural sultan of both Egypt and Syria but also the visionary founder of the illustrious Ayyubid dynasty. His name, in Arabic, was الناصر صلاح الدين يوسف بن أيوب (romanized: an-Nāṣir Ṣalāḥ ad-Dīn Yūsuf ibn Ayyūb), and in Kurdish, سەلاحەدینی ئەییووبی (romanized: Selahedînê Eyûbî). Saladin's legacy is indelibly linked to his masterful leadership of the Muslim military campaigns against the formidable Crusader states nestled in the Levant, playing a profoundly significant role in the pivotal Third Crusade. At the zenith of his immense power, his expansive sultanate commanded a vast territory encompassing Egypt, Syria, Upper Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), the sacred Hejaz (western Arabia), Yemen, considerable portions of western North Africa, and Nubia.

The Rise of a Legend: From Strategic Maneuvers to Sultanate

A Young Kurd Forges His Path in Fatimid Egypt

Saladin's ascent began in 1164 when he was dispatched to Fatimid Egypt, accompanying his uncle Shirkuh, a seasoned general in the Zengid army. Their mission, on the direct orders of their overlord Nur ad-Din, was to assist in reinstating Shawar as the vizier to the young Fatimid caliph, al-Adid. Upon Shawar's successful reinstatement, a tense and intricate power struggle inevitably unfurled between Shirkuh and Shawar. Amidst this volatile political landscape, Saladin shrewdly navigated the currents, steadily climbing the ranks within the Fatimid government. His rise was fueled by his remarkable military successes in repelling Crusader assaults on Egyptian territory and, crucially, by cultivating a close personal rapport with Caliph al-Adid himself. This period was a crucible for Saladin, honing his strategic mind and leadership skills.

Following Shawar's assassination and Shirkuh's subsequent death in 1169, Caliph al-Adid made a truly extraordinary and politically daring decision: he appointed Saladin as vizier. This was a rare, almost unheard-of, nomination of a Sunni Muslim to such an incredibly influential position within the historically Shia caliphate. During his tenure as vizier, Saladin embarked on a subtle yet decisive campaign to undermine the deeply entrenched Fatimid establishment. Upon al-Adid's passing in 1171, Saladin seized the opportune moment, boldly abolishing the Fatimid Caliphate entirely and strategically realigning Egypt's allegiance with the Sunni, Baghdad-based Abbasid caliphate. This pivotal move cemented his authority and profoundly reshaped the religious and political landscape of the region, laying the groundwork for the Ayyubid dynasty.

Consolidating Power and Expanding Influence Across the Levant

In the ensuing years, Saladin's focus turned to solidifying his newfound power and expanding his dominion. He initiated vigorous forays against the Crusaders in Palestine, demonstrating his military might. Under his command, the conquest of Yemen proved successful, further extending his reach and resources. Simultaneously, he adeptly managed to stave off persistent pro-Fatimid rebellions in Upper Egypt, securing his domestic front. A significant turning point arrived not long after Nur ad-Din's death in 1174, which left a power vacuum in Syria. Seizing the moment, Saladin launched his strategic conquest of Syria, entering Damascus peacefully at the request of its governor, showcasing his diplomatic prowess alongside his military strength. By mid-1175, Saladin had strategically conquered Hama and Homs, actions that inevitably provoked the animosity of other Zengid lords, who were the official rulers of Syria's various regions. However, Saladin swiftly put an end to their challenge, decisively defeating the Zengid army at the Battle of the Horns of Hama in 1175. This victory cemented his authority, and soon after, he was formally proclaimed the "Sultan of Egypt and Syria" by the Abbasid caliph al-Mustadi, a title that underscored his immense power and legitimate rule.

Further Conquests, Assassination Attempts, and Strategic Ambitions

With his sultanate firmly established, Saladin pressed on with further ambitious conquests in northern Syria and the Jazira region. His growing power, however, brought its own perils; he narrowly escaped two assassination attempts orchestrated by the notorious Order of Assassins, a testament to the dangerous political landscape he navigated. Returning to Egypt in 1177 to address pressing issues there, he later resumed his campaigns. By 1182, Saladin had successfully completed the conquest of Muslim Syria after capturing Aleppo, a critical strategic objective. Despite these triumphs, he ultimately faced a rare strategic setback, failing to capture the formidable Zengid stronghold of Mosul, which remained beyond his grasp for the time being.

The Apex of Power: Defeating the Crusaders and Reclaiming Jerusalem

The zenith of Saladin's military and political career arrived with his campaigns against the Crusader states. Under his brilliant command, the Ayyubid army delivered a devastating blow to the Crusaders at the decisive Battle of Hattin in 1187. This catastrophic defeat for the Crusader forces opened the path for Saladin to reclaim control of Palestine, including the sacred city of Jerusalem, which had been under Crusader dominion for 88 years. The recapture of Jerusalem was not merely a military victory; it was a monumental religious and political triumph that resonated across the Muslim world and sent shockwaves through Christendom. Although the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem, severely weakened, managed to persist until the late 13th century, its crushing defeat at Hattin stands as a monumental turning point in its protracted conflict with the powerful Muslim forces of the region. Saladin's strategic brilliance and unwavering determination during this period established him as a legendary figure in military history.

A Lasting Legacy: Death, Burial, and Enduring Influence

Saladin passed away in Damascus on March 4, 1193, after a life defined by extraordinary achievements and profound impact. A testament to his humility and generosity, he had famously given away much of his personal wealth to his subjects before his death. Today, he rests in a mausoleum situated adjacent to the magnificent Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. Saladin's remarkable life and leadership have cemented his status as a profoundly prominent figure across Muslim, Arab, Turkish, and Kurdish cultures. He is widely revered and celebrated, often described as the most famous Kurd in history, a symbol of unity, justice, and military prowess. His legacy continues to inspire and resonate, a testament to his enduring influence on the Middle East and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions about Saladin

Who was Saladin?

Saladin, whose full name was Al-Nasir Salah al-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, was a Sunni Muslim Kurd who became the first sultan of both Egypt and Syria, and the founder of the Ayyubid dynasty. He is renowned for leading Muslim military campaigns against the Crusader states in the Levant, notably during the Third Crusade.

What was Saladin's full name and origin?

His full Arabic name was Al-Nasir Salah al-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub (الناصر صلاح الدين يوسف بن أيوب), and in Kurdish, Selahedînê Eyûbî (سەلاحەدینی ئەییووبی). He was a Sunni Muslim Kurd.

When did Saladin live?

Saladin was born in 1137 and passed away on March 4, 1193.

What major achievements is Saladin known for?

He is most famous for establishing the Ayyubid dynasty, uniting Egypt and Syria under his rule, leading the Muslim forces to a decisive victory over the Crusaders at the Battle of Hattin, and recapturing Jerusalem in 1187.

Where is Saladin buried?

Saladin is buried in a mausoleum located adjacent to the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, Syria.