As-Salih Ayyub vs Louis of Nevers

As-Salih Ayyub systematically purchased large numbers of Kipchak Turkic slaves (Mamluks) to form a loyal military corps. He housed them on the island of Rawda (al-Rawda al-Salihiyya). This policy created a powerful military elite that later overthrew the Ayyubids.

As-Salih Ayyub became Sultan of Egypt after deposing his uncle Al-Adil II. He seized power with the support of the Ayyubid army and established his rule in Cairo. This marked the beginning of his reign as the last Ayyubid sultan of Egypt.

As-Salih Ayyub led the defense of Egypt against the Seventh Crusade led by King Louis IX of France. The Crusaders captured Damietta in 1249. As-Salih Ayyub died of illness during the campaign, but his Mamluk forces continued the fight.

As-Salih Ayyub died in Al-Mansurah during the Seventh Crusade. His death was kept secret by his widow Shajar al-Durr and the Mamluk commander Fakhr al-Din Yussuf to maintain morale. This led to a succession crisis and the eventual rise of the Mamluks.

Louis of Nevers inherited the County of Flanders upon the death of his grandfather, Robert III. His succession was contested by his father's claims, but he secured the title through French support, aligning Flanders closely with the French crown.

Louis of Nevers, with French military aid, crushed a major peasant and urban revolt in Flanders led by Nicolaas Zannekin. The revolt was sparked by his pro-French policies and tax burdens, and its suppression solidified his rule but alienated many Flemings.

Louis of Nevers, Count of Flanders, fought on the French side against the English army of Edward III. He was killed during the battle, which ended in a decisive English victory and marked the beginning of the Hundred Years' War's first phase.