An evaluation of the reasons for the resolution of the Third Crusade

The resolution of the Third Crusade was greatly determined by the negotiations between Richard the Lionheart and Saladin. Recognising the stalemate on the battlefield, both leaders opted for diplomatic over military means.
The Treaty of Jaffa in 1192 ended the Third Crusade. It was essentially a truce, allowing Christian pilgrims access to Jerusalem while the city remained under Muslim control. This compromise revealed both sides’ willingness to make concessions, which was crucial to the resolution of the conflict.

Richard I of England and Saladin were both effective leaders and skilled strategists. Their mutual respect and the steady communication between them had a significant role in resolving the Third Crusade.
The death of the German Emperor Frederick Barbarossa had a consequential impact, weakening the Crusader forces and making a diplomatic resolution more appealing to the Christians.

Both the Christian and Muslim armies were afflicted by war fatigue after almost three years of conflict, with many soldiers longing to return home. This fatigue was influential in accelerating peace talks.
The significant loss of life, resource depletion, and general hardship brought about by the Crusade made the prospect of continuing the conflict unpalatable, driving both sides to seek resolution.

Richard the Lionheart had to address issues at home, such as his fractious relationship with his brother John, which compelled him to seek a swift resolution to the Crusade.
Saladin’s control over his empire was spread thinly due to the ongoing conflict, making a diplomatic resolution that preserved his control over Jerusalem more desirable.

Despite the overall religious fervour that marked the Crusades, both Richard and Saladin showed a degree of religious tolerance. This was evident in the safeguarding of Christian pilgrimage rights in the Treaty of Jaffa, which greatly facilitated the resolution of the Third Crusade.