Death of Saladin

March 4, 1193

The sultan died at Damascus of a fever, less than a year after peace with Richard. His private wealth amounted to forty-seven dirhams and a single gold piece - the rest given away. His empire was immediately divided among his sons and brothers and began its gradual fragmentation. Saladin's generosity became legendary in both the Islamic and Christian worlds, and his chivalry was cited by Dante, who placed him among the virtuous pagans.