Saladin's Navy: How Sea Power Shaped the Crusades

We all know Saladin as the sultan who recaptured Jerusalem, but few realize he also built a formidable navy that challenged Crusader control of the Mediterranean. In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore Saladin's naval strategy—from his early shipbuilding program in Egypt to the key battles of the Sea of Jaffa and the Siege of Acre. Discover how Saladin's admiral, Lu'lu', led daring raids against Crusader supply lines, and why the Battle of Arsuf was not just a land engagement but a story of broken naval promises. We discuss the limits of Ayyubid seapower, the role of Italian maritime republics, and how Saladin's fleet ultimately failed to stop reinforcements from Europe. This episode offers a fresh perspective on the Crusades through the lens of maritime history, drawing on chronicles like Ibn al-Athir and Baha ad-Din ibn Shaddad. It's a tale of wood, wind, and waves that shaped the fate of kingdoms. #Saladin #Crusades #NavalHistory #AyyubidNavy #Mediterranean #LuLu #SeaOfJaffa #SiegeOfAcre #BattleOfArsuf #IbnAlAthir #BahaAdDin #Egypt #Jerusalem #MaritimeHistory #Hattin #Frankish #MedievalWarfare #FexingoHistory #AyyubidDynasty #MedievalMiddleEast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo