Is Saladin Overrated?

The original Assassin’s Creed game focuses on the Assassins' efforts to bring down the Templars during the Third Crusade from 1189-1192. He encounters real figures from history, including Templar Grand Masters and Christian kings. One person who doesn’t appear as a character is the Muslim leader, Saladin. Nevertheless his presence - and his legend - is felt. The first Sultan of both Egypt and Syria, Saladin pushed back against the Christian Crusader Kingdoms and retook Jerusalem. His success led to the Third Crusade. He’s the reason Richard the Lionheart was in the Holy Land, and he was the sworn enemy of the Templars. To find out more about Saladin’s rise to power and his astonishing successes, I’m joined by the wonderful Professor Jonathan Phillips from Royal Holloway, University of London. He explains how Saladin rose to power, and may not have been as accomplished as his legendary reputation suggests. Echoes of History is a Ubisoft podcast, brought to you by History Hit. Watch these interviews and exclusive videos on our YouTube channel. Hosted by: Matt Lewis Edited by: Michael McDaid Produced by: Robin McConnell, Matt Lewis Senior Producer: Anne-Marie Luff Production Manager: Beth Donaldson Executive Producers: Etienne Bouvier, Julien Fabre, Steve Lanham, Jen Bennett Music: City of Jerusalem by Jesper Kyd Meditation Begins by Jesper Kyd Meditation of the Assassin by Jesper Kyd If you liked this podcast please subscribe, share, rate & review. Take part in our listener survey here. Tell us your favourite Assassin's Creed game or podcast episode at echoes-of-history@historyhit.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.