Battle of Ascalon

In 1099, the forces of the First Crusade--about 1200 knights and 9000 infantry under Godfrey of Bouillon--found a Fatimid Egyptian army of 30,000 to 50,000 outside the city of Ascalon in the Holy Land. The Fatimids knew the Crusaders were in Jerusalem, one day's march away, but were not prepared for combat. The Crusaders were outnumbered at least three to one, but attacked anyway and broke the Fatimid army, causing 10,000 casualties; they captured the enemy standard, the general's tent, and much loot. The surviving Fatimids withdrew to Egypt.

Godfrey and Raymond of Toulouse both claimed Ascalon; the Fatimid garrison learned of the dispute and decided not to surrender, and retained control of the city for another 50 years.