The Decisive Battles of World History

Lecture 11: 1187 Hattin—Crusader Desert Disaster

Guy was with the center group, which carried the most valuable

Christian religious artifact, a cross alleged to be the one on which

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x The soldiers literally baked in their armor, choked on the dust

clouds raised by thousands of marching feet, and suffered

tremendous thirst from the severely restricted water rations. Adding

to the discomfort were harassing raids by Saladin’s forces, which

increased in intensity over the course of the day.

x By the afternoon, Guy determined to alter the direction of the march

toward the nearby springs of Hattin, beyond which lay the Lake of

Tiberias. Knowing that keeping the Christian army from reaching

either of these water sources would be a great advantage, Saladin

ordered a detachment of his more mobile army to hurry around and

block the road.

x In contrast to the dismal conditions in the parched Christian camp,

Saladin’s army settled down for the night in high spirits.

o Fresh sheaves of arrows were distributed to all the archers,

and 70 camels carrying more arrows were organized to supply

fresh ammunition wherever it might be needed.

o A relay of more camels brought water from Lake Tiberias in

goatskin bags so that everyone had plenty to drink.

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undergrowth and sticks into bundles positioned along the

windward side of the Christians’ anticipated line of march.

x On July 4, the weary Christian army dragged toward the springs

of Hattin, a couple of miles from the vanguard. To increase their

discomfort and confusion, Saladin’s men ignited the gathered

brush, enveloping Guy’s men in choking clouds of smoke.

x Saladin then launched a general attack. The battle now coalesced

around the embattled Christian survivors atop the Horns of Hattin.