# Baldwin IV of Jerusalem

> King of Jerusalem (1161-1185) (r. 1174-1185)

**Wikidata**: [Q296850](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q296850)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baldwin_IV_of_Jerusalem)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/baldwin-iv-of-jerusalem

## Summary
Baldwin IV of Jerusalem was a medieval Christian monarch who ruled the Kingdom of Jerusalem from 1174 to 1185. Known as "Baldwin the Leper" due to his affliction with leprosy, he is remembered for his leadership during a critical period of the Crusader states, defending the kingdom against Muslim forces led by Saladin.

## Biography
- **Born**: 1161 (exact place unknown)
- **Nationality**: Kingdom of Jerusalem (medieval Christian state in the Middle East)
- **Known for**: Reigning as King of Jerusalem (1174–1185) and defending the Crusader kingdom against Saladin
- **Field(s)**: Monarchy, military leadership

## Contributions
Baldwin IV of Jerusalem's reign was marked by his efforts to preserve the Kingdom of Jerusalem amid external threats. His most notable contribution was his leadership during the Battle of Montgisard (1177), where his forces defeated Saladin's army, temporarily securing the kingdom. Despite his youth and illness, he played a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the Crusader states during a period of intense conflict.

## FAQs
**Who was Baldwin IV of Jerusalem?**
Baldwin IV was the King of Jerusalem from 1174 to 1185, known for his leadership during the Crusades and his battle against leprosy.

**What was Baldwin IV of Jerusalem known for?**
He is best known for his military leadership, particularly his victory at the Battle of Montgisard in 1177, which halted Saladin's advance into the Kingdom of Jerusalem.

**When did Baldwin IV of Jerusalem rule?**
He ruled from 1174 until his death in 1185, ascending to the throne at the age of 13.

**Why was Baldwin IV called "the Leper"?**
He suffered from leprosy, a condition that progressively debilitated him during his reign but did not prevent him from leading his kingdom.

## Why They Matter
Baldwin IV's reign was pivotal in the history of the Crusader states. His leadership delayed the fall of Jerusalem to Muslim forces, providing a temporary respite for the Christian kingdom. His ability to govern and command armies despite his illness demonstrated remarkable resilience, influencing later perceptions of leadership in adversity.

## Notable For
- Reigning as King of Jerusalem from 1174 to 1185
- Leading the Kingdom of Jerusalem during a critical period of the Crusades
- Victory at the Battle of Montgisard (1177) against Saladin
- Known as "Baldwin the Leper" due to his affliction with leprosy

## Body
### Early Life and Ascension
Baldwin IV was born in 1161, the son of King Amalric I of Jerusalem. He ascended to the throne at the age of 13 in 1174, following his father's death. His early reign was marked by the challenges of ruling a kingdom under constant threat from Muslim forces, particularly those led by Saladin.

### Military Leadership
Despite his youth and illness, Baldwin IV proved to be a capable military leader. His most significant achievement was the victory at the Battle of Montgisard in 1177, where his forces decisively defeated Saladin's army. This victory temporarily secured the Kingdom of Jerusalem and demonstrated Baldwin's strategic prowess.

### Health and Legacy
Baldwin IV suffered from leprosy, which progressively worsened during his reign. Despite his illness, he continued to govern and lead his kingdom until his death in 1185. His reign is remembered for its resilience and the temporary stabilization of the Crusader states in the face of overwhelming odds.

### Cultural and Historical Impact
Baldwin IV's life and reign have been the subject of historical and cultural interest. His story has been depicted in various media, including literature and film, highlighting his struggles and achievements. His leadership during a critical period of the Crusades has left a lasting impact on the history of the Middle East and the Crusader states.

## References

1. The Peerage
2. Czech National Authority Database
3. BnF authorities
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
5. Virtual International Authority File
6. IdRef
7. Quora
8. LIBRIS. 2015