The Battle of Hattin

The Battle of Hattin, fought on July 4, 1187, was a pivotal conflict during the Crusades, where the forces of Saladin, the Muslim leader, confronted the Crusader states of the Levant. Saladin's troops, capitalizing on superior numbers and strategic positioning, defeated the Crusaders, capturing many, including King Guy of Jerusalem. This decisive victory opened the way for Saladin to reclaim Jerusalem, significantly weakening Crusader influence in the region. The battle marked a turning point in the conflict between Muslims and Christians over control of the Holy Land, influencing subsequent military and political dynamics in the area.