Baldwin IV of Jerusalem

Known as the Leper King, Baldwin was the King of Jerusalem from 1174 until he died in 1185. Saladin's growing power marked Baldwin's reign. In November 1177, Saladin marched from Egypt to attack Ashkelon, and Baldwin rushed to the city's aid. He defeated Saladin near Mont Gisard. 1180, a truce was agreed upon, but the Christians broke it. Shortly afterward, Saladin captured Aleppo, thus completing the siege of Jerusalem. He contracted leprosy in his childhood with severe physical consequences. His face was disfigured. It was said that he hid under a mask, although this is a myth; in reality, he used a veil because the mask would have irritated his delicate skin. He was also practically blind, and his hands and legs were mutilated. Due to his illness, his court did not expect him to reign for long; therefore, even before his accession, they were already seeking to influence his possible heirs and make alliances. Baldwin died in 1185 at the age of 24.