Salauddin Ayyubi, the conqueror of Jerusalem

**Salahuddin Ayyubi**, also known as Saladin, was a prominent Kurdish Muslim leader and military commander who is best known for his role in the Crusades and his capture of Jerusalem. Born in 1137 or 1138 in Tikrit (modern-day Iraq), Salahuddin rose to prominence through his leadership and military prowess, eventually founding the Ayyubid dynasty.

### Key Points about Salahuddin Ayyubi:

- **Rise to Power**: Salahuddin initially served under the Zengid dynasty and became a trusted general. He later took control of Egypt, establishing the Ayyubid dynasty and unifying much of the Muslim Near East.

- **The Crusades**: Salahuddin is most famous for his role in the Crusades, particularly during the Third Crusade. He led the Muslim forces against the Crusader states and achieved a significant victory at the Battle of Hattin in 1187, which paved the way for the capture of Jerusalem.

- **Capture of Jerusalem**: After defeating the Crusader forces, Salahuddin took Jerusalem in October 1187. His capture of the city was a pivotal moment in the Crusades and marked a significant shift in the balance of power.

- **Chivalry and Diplomacy**: Salahuddin is also noted for his chivalric conduct and fair treatment of his enemies. His respectful treatment of the Christian inhabitants of Jerusalem after its capture was widely praised and contrasted with the brutality often associated with the period.

- **Legacy**: Salahuddin's legacy endures as a symbol of leadership and justice in both the Islamic world and in historical accounts of the Crusades. His ability to unite disparate Muslim factions and his impact on the Crusader states are central to his historical significance.

Salahuddin Ayyubi remains a revered figure in history, known for his military acumen, diplomatic skills, and his role in shaping the course of medieval history in the Near East.