Saladin and the Battle of Arsuf: Tactical Genius Tested

In this episode, Lucas and Luna dive into one of Saladin's most challenging moments: the Battle of Arsuf in 1191. Fresh from his victories at Hattin and Jerusalem, Saladin confronts Richard the Lionheart's disciplined army on the march. We explore Saladin's tactical gambit—his attempt to break the Frankish column with waves of cavalry archers—and Richard's masterful counter, a feigned retreat that turned the tide. The discussion covers the role of the Templars and Hospitallers as the crusaders' rearguard, the devastating charge that shattered Ayyubid lines, and why Saladin's failure at Arsuf forced him to rethink his strategy. We also reflect on how both commanders earned each other's grudging respect, setting the stage for future negotiations. Along the way, we touch on key sources like Baha ad-Din ibn Shaddad and the Itinerarium Peregrinorum, and the harsh logistics of the Third Crusade. #Saladin #BattleOfArsuf #RichardTheLionheart #ThirdCrusade #Crusades #Ayyubid #Templars #Hospitallers #BahaAdDin #ItinerariumPeregrinorum #MedievalWarfare #MilitaryHistory #Jerusalem #Acre #Arsuf #Tactics #History #FexingoHistory Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo