Enrico Dandolo was the 42nd Doge of Venice, serving from 1192 until his death in 1205. He is best known for his leadership during the Fourth Crusade, which aimed to reclaim the Holy Land but ultimately led to the conquest of Constantinople. Dandolo was a skilled diplomat and strategist, playing a crucial role in the alliance between the Crusaders and the Venetians. Despite being blind later in life, Dandolo remained an influential figure in Venetian politics and military affairs. His tenure marked a significant expansion of Venetian power and influence in the Mediterranean, establishing Venice as a major maritime empire.