Final answer:
Saladin led the Muslim forces to recapture Jerusalem from the crusaders in 1187, establishing the Ayubid dynasty and becoming a respected leader known for his chivalry (option a).
Step-by-step explanation:
The leader who led the Muslim forces to retake Jerusalem from the crusaders was Saladin. His full name was Salah al-Din Yusuf ibn Ayub, and he was known in the Christian world as Saladin. After several years of strategic planning and military action, in 1187, Saladin successfully recaptured Jerusalem. This victory was a significant milestone during the time of the Crusades, marking the end of nearly 90 years of Christian control over the city since its capture in 1099 during the First Crusade.
Saladin's approach to leadership and his successful efforts to unify various Muslim rulers under the cause of jihad significantly contributed to this accomplishment. He founded the Ayubid dynasty and was renowned for his chivalrous conduct even among his adversaries. The Battle of Hattin was a decisive moment where the power of Outremer, a collection of crusader states, was effectively eroded, subsequently leading to Saladin's capture of Jerusalem.
Hence, the answer is option a.