In 1187 at the legendary battle of Hattin, Saladin defeated the Christian Crusaders' army and recaptured Jerusalem. Subsequently Saladin fought many battles against the greatest of the crusader generals, Richard the Lionheart, with each man earning great respect from their adversary on the field of battle. Saladin was a talented strategist, administrator and organizer, and was held in high regard by both his own people as well as his European antagonists.