The Zengid dynasty, a powerful Turkoman Sunni Muslim Atabegate, emerged in 1127 under the Seljuk Empire, eventually controlling significant parts of the Levant and Upper Mesopotamia. Its founder, Imad ad-Din Zengi, became a celebrated hero in the Islamic world after capturing the Crusader County of Edessa in 1144. His successor, Nur ad-Din, proved equally formidable, expanding Zengid influence by capturing Damascus in 1154 and achieving further decisive victories against the Crusaders. Under Nur ad-Din's command, his general Shirkuh, accompanied by his nephew Saladin, successfully campaigned in Egypt, seizing control in 1169. The Zengids were renowned for their pivotal role in the Muslim resistance against the Crusaders and for being the dynasty from which Saladin originated, ultimately persisting as a "Seljuk successor-state" until 1250.