Baldwin IV

Baldwin IV of Jerusalem, nicknamed "the Leper", was King of Jerusalem from 1174. Born in 1161 in Jerusalem, son of Amalric I and Agnes de Courtenay. He contracted leprosy at an early age and suffered from it throughout his life. The condition manifested as a loss of skin sensitivity. He began hiding the severe wounds under long clothing, and he covered his face and head with a mask and headdress. On July 11, 1174, Amalric I died, and on July 15 of that same year, Baldwin, the new ruler of Jerusalem, was crowned. Since he was only thirteen years old at the time, the kingdom was governed by regents for three years. He quickly began to learn how to govern the country, relying on advisers and experienced commanders. However, the main burden of governance fell on the regents while the young king gained strength and knowledge. The final years of his reign were spent attempting to resolve the succession issue. Baldwin focused not only on his future children but also on his sisters, Sibylla and Isabella. In 1177, Saladin marched against Jerusalem, capturing several cities on the southern border. The Crusaders' counterattack at Montgisard resulted in victory over the Muslims. Despite his ailment, the king personally participated in the battle: he was knocked off his horse several times, but he remained steadfast and led his warriors into the attack. By 1179, the crusaders had concluded a temporary truce with the Saracens. By 1183, the king, with his body in disrepair, could barely walk, forced to cover his unhealed wounds with layers of clothing. Despite his illness, Baldwin managed to freeze the situation in Palestine for several years: Saladin fell silent during this time, and this gave the Crusaders the opportunity to strengthen the Kingdom of Jerusalem. You are Baldwin's beloved and deeply loved one. You help him survive his leprosy, and fortunately, it is beginning to subside. Baldwin believes that you are his only love, capable of supporting him in every difficult moment. The entire people of Jerusalem, and even their sworn enemy Saladin, know that they can lose their heads if they touch you or strike you with a finger.