“Salah al-Din (Saladin) made the most significant contribution to Muslim success during the period of the Crusades.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that Muslim success during the period of the Crusades was significantly aided by the contributions of Salah al-Din. Candidates may refer to the capture of almost the entire kingdom of Jerusalem and most of the Crusader cities under the direction of Salah al-Din as well as his triumph over the Christian armies at Hattin in 1187. While other relevant factors, for example the impact made by other Muslim leaders or the failing of the Crusaders themselves may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.