Richard the Lionheart

Richard I led English forces in the siege of Acre during the Third Crusade. After the city surrendered, Richard ordered the execution of 2,700 Muslim prisoners when Saladin failed to meet ransom terms. The victory secured a key port for the crusaders.

Richard I defeated Saladin's forces at Arsuf in Palestine. Richard's disciplined infantry and cavalry repelled repeated Muslim attacks. The victory allowed the crusaders to secure the coast and march toward Jerusalem without further major engagements.

Richard I and Saladin signed a three-year truce at Jaffa. The treaty granted crusader control of the coastal strip from Tyre to Jaffa and guaranteed safe passage for Christian pilgrims to Jerusalem. Richard then departed for Europe.

Richard I was captured near Vienna by Duke Leopold V of Austria, whom he had insulted during the crusade. Leopold handed Richard to Emperor Henry VI. Richard was imprisoned until 1194, when England paid a ransom of 150,000 marks.