In this episode, we hear how the Crusader states in the 1180s were unable to find unity or strong leadership to face the growing threat of Saladin. Instead, the death of the leper King Baldwin IV of Jerusalem resulted in a fractious and divided political environment. Matters were only made worse by the renegade behaviour of Reynald of Châtillon, whose outrageous attacks on Muslim convoys passing between Egypt and Syria provided the perfect excuse for Saladin to call for a decisive war against the Crusaders.

Please take a look at my website nickholmesauthor.com where you can download a free copy of The Byzantine World War, my book that describes the origins of the First Crusade.