Richard I 'the Lionheart'
1157–1199 · English (Plantagenet) · The Crusades
Known for: Warrior-king of the Third Crusade—legendary for his bravery and rivalry with Saladin
Richard I of England was the quintessential warrior-king who spent only six months of his ten-year reign actually in England. He led the Third Crusade, capturing Acre and fighting Saladin to a stalemate that secured Christian access to Jerusalem. He was physically imposing, personally brave to the point of recklessness, and a gifted poet who composed songs in French and Occitan.
He was captured and ransomed on his return from the Crusade—the ransom was so enormous it nearly bankrupted England. He died from a crossbow wound while besieging a minor French castle, reportedly forgiving the crossbowman who shot him. He was a magnificent warrior and a terrible king.
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