Imad al-Din Zengi was a prominent military leader and the atabeg of Mosul during the 12th century. He is best known for his efforts to unite the Muslim territories in Syria and Iraq against the Crusaders. Zengi's campaigns were marked by strategic military tactics and significant victories, including the capture of Edessa in 1144, which was the first major Crusader state to fall to Muslim forces. Zengi's leadership laid the groundwork for the rise of his successor, Nur ad-Din, and ultimately contributed to the unification of Muslim forces under Saladin. His legacy is remembered for its impact on the political landscape of the Middle East during the Crusades, as well as for his role in promoting Islamic unity against external threats.