Battle of Hattin

Definition

The Battle of Hattin was a pivotal confrontation that took place on July 4, 1187, between the forces of the Crusader states and the Muslim army led by Saladin. This battle is significant as it marked a decisive victory for Saladin, resulting in the capture of Jerusalem and a substantial weakening of Crusader power in the Holy Land. The defeat at Hattin highlighted the growing strength of Muslim forces and shifted the balance of power in the region.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The battle took place near the Sea of Galilee and was characterized by extreme heat, which severely affected the Crusader troops' ability to fight.
2. Crusader forces were led by King Guy of Lusignan and included many knights from various European regions, but they were outnumbered and poorly positioned against Saladin's well-prepared army.
3. The defeat at Hattin resulted in the loss of many important relics, including the True Cross, which was a significant blow to Christian morale.
4. Following Hattin, Saladin captured Jerusalem in September 1187, leading to widespread calls for a new Crusade in Europe.
5. The Battle of Hattin is often seen as a turning point that signaled the decline of Crusader influence in the Holy Land and prompted renewed efforts to reclaim lost territories during subsequent Crusades.

Review Questions

• What strategies did Saladin employ during the Battle of Hattin that contributed to his victory over the Crusaders?
  • Saladin utilized superior tactics, including careful positioning and timing of his forces to exploit the weaknesses of the Crusaders. He aimed to cut off their access to water sources, which was crucial given the extreme heat on the day of battle. This strategic advantage wore down the morale and strength of King Guy's forces, making them vulnerable to a decisive attack.
• Analyze how the outcome of the Battle of Hattin influenced subsequent events in both Muslim and Christian territories in the region.
  • The outcome of Hattin greatly shifted power dynamics in the region, leading to Saladin's capture of Jerusalem and significantly diminishing Crusader control. This prompted a response from Europe, resulting in the Third Crusade, as kings like Richard the Lionheart sought to reclaim lost territory. The battle thus not only escalated military conflict but also deepened religious fervor on both sides, shaping future relations between Christians and Muslims.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of the Battle of Hattin on Crusader states and their legacy in medieval history.
  • The long-term consequences of the Battle of Hattin were profound, leading to a decline in Crusader states' power and influence. This battle exemplified how military setbacks could impact territorial control and religious aspirations. The eventual loss of Jerusalem marked a turning point that led to increased military campaigns by European powers over subsequent decades, illustrating how one significant event can alter historical trajectories and shape legacies in warfare and diplomacy.

Related terms

Saladin:

The first sultan of Egypt and Syria, Saladin was a key figure in the Muslim resistance against the Crusaders and is best known for his leadership during the Battle of Hattin and the recapture of Jerusalem.

Crusader States:

The Crusader States were feudal territories established by Western European Christians in the Levant during the Crusades, which included regions such as the Kingdom of Jerusalem, the County of Tripoli, and the Principality of Antioch.

Third Crusade: The Third Crusade (1189-1192) was launched in response to Saladin's conquest of Jerusalem following his victory at Hattin, involving prominent leaders like Richard the Lionheart, Philip II of France, and Frederick I Barbarossa.