Customer Reviews

Saladin: All-Powerful Sultan and the Uniter of Islam

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Written by the late British historian Stanley Lane-Pools (1854-1931), Saladin: All-powerful Sultan And The Uniter Of Islam is an informed and informative biography of the great warrior, statesman, and faithful believer in Islam, Salah ad-Din ibn Ayyub, more commonly known as Saladin (A.D. 1138-1193). From his early years in a Kurdish military family to the beginning of his military service at age fourteen, to his conquest of Jerusalem marked by an unprecedentedly humane treatment of the citizens within, to his belief and application of civilized justice, Saladin: All-powerful Sultan And The Uniter Of Islam is the life story of a truly unique leader who deservedly earned his legendary status both in the West as well as throughout Islam.

Stanley Lane-Poole's biography of Saladin was published in 1898 but remains the best source of information about the sultan. The author has done his research consulting Christian and Muslim contemporary sources - some of which he quotes from - and conveys Saladin's life in beautiful prose. An excellent example is the following except concerning Crusader ambassadors given the unique privilege of seeing the Fatimid Caliph of Egypt.

"They were led by mysterious corridors and through guarded doors, where stalwart Sudanis saluted with naked swords. They reached a spacious court, open to the sky, and surrounded by arcades resting on marble pillars; the paneled ceilings were carved and inlaid in gold and colours; the pavement was rich mosaic. The unaccustomed eyes of the rude knights opened wide with wonder at the taste and refinement that met them at every step; - here they saw marble fountains, birds of many notes and wondrous plumage, strangers to the western world..."

Mr. Lane-Poole provides an invaluable look at the world of Saladin giving us the history of the Seljuk Turks and the First Crusade, and the life of Saladin is presented with no information lacking and with a critical eye for his subject. The struggle between Christians and Muslims is well presented and we are given completed accounts of the Third Crusade from both sides. The book is illustrated with many photographs, maps and drawings; it also includes a list of the principle contemporary historians of the period.
I wanted to know more about Saladin having seen the film Kingdom of Heaven, and this book was perfect.

It is perhaps the most detailed & well documented book on a legend of a man. The only part it glides over is Salahdin's interaction with the Hashashieen (Assasins) tribes of his time.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It is a facsinating story of a great warrior who fought for his country. I can recommend this book to anyone interested in the histroty of the muslim world.