1. A description of Saladin by one of his friends and advisers.
“Small and frail with a short neat beard, his thoughtful and sad face would light up with a comforting smile that would put anyone talking to him at ease”
Written by Baha-al-Din, one of Saladin’s officials.
“I never saw him find the enemy too powerful. He would think carefully about each aspect of the situation and take necessary steps to deal with it, without becoming angry. At the battle of Acre, the centre of the Moslem army was broken, but he stood firm with a handful of men and led them into battle again.”
Date of Birth: He was born in 1137
Religion: Saladin was a Muslim
Family: He was the son of a very important and very rich family
Personality: Noted for his respectful and honourable behaviour. Saladin was clever, brave, kind and generous
Achievements: Led the Third Crusade. Brought Muslims to fight together for the first time in their history. Captured the Holy city of Jerusalem in Was very respectful and kind to King Richard, despite being his enemy. Fights and defeats Richard many times and holds on to the city of Jerusalem. Makes peace with the Christians, and shares land with them.
Written by Baha-al-Din
“ A scout came to us with a sobbing Frankish woman. ‘Yesterday some Moslem thieves entered my tent and stole my little girl. I cried all night and commanders told me: ‘The King of the Moslems is merciful’ Saladin was touched and tears came to his eyes. He sent someone to the slave market to look for the girl. Less than an hour later a horseman arrived bearing the child on his shoulders. Thus was her daughter returned to her” 20