Book Review: Saladin The Life, The Legend and The Islamic Empire by John Man

This book of history by John Man is related to Saladin, who to date remains one of the key figures of the Islamic empire. Yusuf, son of Ayub, was born in Tikrit and later came to be known as Saladin. Saladin’s rise to power was influenced by various factors. Saladin’s father was a governor, his uncle Shirkuh a military commander and later Saladin also served under Nur- Al din’s command. Nur- Al Din’s death by disease made it easier for Saladin’s rise to power only because conflict had been avoided in his own camp. After consolidating his position Saladin fought against the franks, supported the murder of Vizier Shawar, built a strong army and bullied the young caliph naming him the Vizier.

During that time period the mode of warfare remained very different as compared to that of today. Pigeon-rearing remained an important industry. Pigeons were trained to carry messages which included messages for war preparation, military secrets and spying. Specially trained swimmers broke into enemy lines carrying dinars and messages. It was a risky business but continued to be an essential part of warfare during Saladin’s time. Adding to that Saladin was also a strategist who appointed his family members on key influential positions to keep a check on any form of opposition and to further his power.

Furthermore Saladin had amazing leadership skills. For this he was praised not only by Islamic writers but also from Christian. In the latter half of the book reference is made of Christian writers who have praised Saladin’s generosity and magnanimity. He would not directly go for pillage, death and destruction. For women and children he would offer amnesty and treat them courteously. Some writers went too far and declared him Christian by considering his grandmother a devout Christian. Saladin’s significance was carried into the twentieth century and many of the world leaders especially in the Arab world who tried to imitate his charismatic persona. Despite all his success and failures Saladin is still admired in the world today and still considered as a subject by authors.