Richard I of England was born into the powerful Angevin dynasty and became Duke of Aquitaine before inheriting the English throne in 1189.
He is best known for his role in the Third Crusade, where he led crusader forces in the Eastern Mediterranean against Saladin after the fall of Jerusalem.
Richard captured Acre, won the battle of Arsuf, and negotiated with Saladin over access to holy sites, though he never retook Jerusalem itself.
His military skill and personal bravery earned him admiration even from his enemies, but his long absences from England and heavy taxation to fund his campaigns caused hardship at home.
He died in 1199 from a wound received while besieging a minor castle in France, leaving behind a mixed legacy of legendary heroism and neglected kingship.