Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar is my role model for many reasons. He was born a minor noble in the Kingdom of Castile in the mid-1000s and rose to be the very influential ruler of Valencia.He is a national hero of Spain and helped greatly in the unification of Spain. He treated Muslims and Catholics equally, while still helping greatly in the Reconquista. And though it was likely that he wouldn't have been remembered by history whatsoever, he made a lasting impact in history and helped a war-torn country unify under his king, who he remained loyal to despite being banished from Castile several times, only to be called back when he was needed. Rodrigo Diaz was named the Champion of Castile and chosen to lead the Kingdom's armies to war against the King's brother, King Sancho of Leon, who had declared war on him to take his brother's lands by force. Rodrigo successfully captured King Sancho and delivered him to his brother to talk terms, however, it is believed Sancho murdered his brother while speaking to him. Through the laws of inheritance, Sancho was named the King of both Castile and Leon. Rodrigo was sent to battle after battle and played a key role in the unification of Spain. Despite having his king killed, he served the very man who killed him loyally because he believed it was the right thing to do for his country. …show more content…
When Zaragoza was being invaded, Rodrigo led an army of Muslims and Christians to help protect his new ruler. Though he ultimately failed in his endeavor, Rodrigo did not fret, despite being banished once again, he attracted many followers to him, and eventually he had attracted a large army to his cause. He took his army and successfully assaulted the city of Valencia, predominantly populated by Muslims. With such a sense of equality, his subjects loved him and would do pretty much anything for