Zengi was a prominent Muslim military leader and the atabeg of Mosul during the 12th century. He is best known for his efforts to unite various Muslim factions against the Crusaders, who were expanding their territories in the Middle East. Zengi's leadership and military strategies played a crucial role in the defense of Muslim lands. He is particularly famous for capturing the city of Edessa in 1144, which was a significant victory for the Muslim forces. This conquest not only strengthened his position but also marked the first major Muslim victory against the Crusaders, influencing the course of the Crusades that followed.