Saladin (Salah ad-Din)

Saladin, or Salah ad-Din, was a 12th-century Kurdish Muslim leader renowned for uniting Egypt and much of the Middle East during the Crusades. He founded the Ayyubid dynasty, established strong military and political authority, and is best known for recapturing Jerusalem from Christian Crusaders in 1187. Saladin was admired for his leadership, fairness, and chivalry, earning respect across religious divides. His efforts helped defend Muslim lands and keep them influential during a turbulent period marked by violent conflicts between Christian and Muslim states. His legacy endures as a symbol of Islamic strength and princely honor.