Was Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad The First Assassin? Unraveling the Creed’s Origins

No, Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad was not the first Assassin. While he’s arguably the most iconic figure from the original Assassin’s Creed game and a pivotal character in the franchise’s lore, the seeds of the Assassin Brotherhood were sown long before his birth in 1165. Though Altaïr’s actions and reforms profoundly shaped the Brotherhood, its origins trace back further into history.

The Precursors: Who Came Before Altaïr?

The true origins lie in the real-world historical figure of Hassan-i-Sabbah, often credited as the founder of the Order of Assassins. This Shia Ismaili leader, born in the 11th century, established a network of fortified strongholds in Persia and Syria, using a combination of religious fervor, political maneuvering, and, of course, assassination, to advance his cause. While not explicitly referred to as “Assassins” in the same fictional context as the Assassin’s Creed games, Hassan-i-Sabbah’s followers exhibited many of the characteristics that would come to define the Brotherhood: unwavering loyalty, a commitment to a specific ideology (however interpreted), and a willingness to eliminate targets perceived as enemies.

In the Assassin’s Creed universe, these historical roots are acknowledged and built upon. The game portrays the Assassins as an ancient organization, existing in various forms throughout history, fighting against the Templars for the fate of humanity. Therefore, Altaïr is a critical evolution of the Brotherhood, not its genesis. He inherited a legacy and transformed it through his experiences and his interactions with the Apple of Eden.

Altaïr’s Revolutionary Changes

While not the first, Altaïr’s contributions to the Assassin Brotherhood are undeniable. He reformed their practices, moving away from public displays of violence and embracing stealth and secrecy. He was responsible for the design of the Hidden Blade, a quintessential assassin tool. His wisdom, documented in his Codex, was a guiding light for future generations of Assassins, most notably Ezio Auditore da Firenze. Altaïr represents a crucial turning point in the Brotherhood’s history, shifting them from a more religiously driven, overtly aggressive group to a more clandestine, strategic organization.

The Apple of Eden’s Influence

Altaïr’s acquisition and study of the Apple of Eden, a Piece of Eden, fundamentally altered his understanding of the world and the conflict between the Assassins and Templars. It gave him insight into advanced technologies and strategies, which he documented and passed on to his successors. This knowledge allowed the Assassin Brotherhood to evolve and adapt to new threats throughout the centuries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad and the origins of the Assassin Brotherhood:

1. Who was the first known leader of the Assassins?

   In both historical and Assassin’s Creed lore, Hassan-i-Sabbah is generally regarded as the founder and first leader of the group that would eventually evolve into the Assassin Brotherhood.

2. What rank did Altaïr achieve within the Assassin Brotherhood?

   Altaïr reached the highest possible rank: Grand Master or Mentor of the Assassin Brotherhood. He initially obtained the rank of Master Assassin by age seventeen.

3. How did Altaïr reform the Assassin Brotherhood?

   Altaïr implemented significant changes, including emphasizing secrecy and stealth, phasing out public assassinations, allowing the use of poisons, and restructuring the Brotherhood’s hierarchy.

4. What was the significance of the Apple of Eden in Altaïr’s life?

   The Apple of Eden granted Altaïr vast knowledge and insight, allowing him to develop new technologies and strategies for the Assassins and providing invaluable information for future generations.

5. Was Altaïr born into the Assassin Brotherhood?

   Yes, Altaïr was raised to be an Assassin from birth, making him deeply ingrained in the Brotherhood’s traditions and ideologies.

6. How did Altaïr die?

   Altaïr died of old age in 1257 at the age of 92, locking himself in a vault in his library in Masyaf with one last Apple of Eden. He sat down in a chair and passed away with a smile.

7. Is Altaïr related to other prominent Assassins like Ezio Auditore?

   No, Altaïr and Ezio are not directly related, although Desmond Miles is a descendant of both, as his ancestry contains genetic memories of both.

8. Why did Altaïr initially lose his rank within the Assassin Brotherhood?

   Altaïr lost his rank due to arrogance and a violation of the Assassin’s Creed during a mission to Solomon’s Temple.

9. What languages did Altaïr speak?

   He most likely spoke Arabic and possibly some Latin or other regional languages of the time.

10. How skilled of a fighter was Altaïr?

    Altaïr was an extremely skilled fighter, known for his speed, agility, and precision. He was rarely wounded in combat and was able to take down Templars in both 1 vs 1 and 1 vs many combat encounters.

11. Which Assassin’s Creed game features Altaïr as the main protagonist?

    Assassin’s Creed (2007) is the first game in the series and features Altaïr as the protagonist. He also appears in Assassin’s Creed: Bloodlines, Assassin’s Creed II (through Ezio’s memories), and Assassin’s Creed: Revelations.

12. What does Altaïr’s famous quote, “Nothing is true, everything is permitted,” mean?

    The quote is a philosophical statement emphasizing freedom of thought and action, but also the responsibility that comes with such freedom. It suggests that there are no inherent truths or moral absolutes, and therefore, individuals are free to choose their own path and make their own judgments.

13. Why is Altaïr considered a legendary Assassin?

    Altaïr is considered a legendary Assassin due to his significant contributions to the Brotherhood, his innovative strategies, and his profound understanding of the Apple of Eden.

14. How did Altaïr innovate the Hidden Blade?

    Altaïr redesigned the Hidden Blade, allowing it to be used without requiring the amputation of a finger, a change that was greatly appreciated by future Assassins.

15. Did Altaïr meet any historical figures during his lifetime?

    Yes, Altaïr likely encountered various historical figures during the Third Crusade and his travels throughout the Middle East.

Conclusion: Altaïr’s Enduring Legacy

While Altaïr wasn’t the first Assassin, his impact on the Brotherhood is undeniable. He was a reformer, an innovator, and a visionary who shaped the organization into what it would become. His legacy continues to inspire players and influence the narrative of the Assassin’s Creed franchise, solidifying his place as one of the most important and beloved characters in the series. Delving into these historical and fictional narratives offers invaluable insights into learning through games, mirroring the Games Learning Society’s mission to explore how games can contribute to education and skill development. To learn more about the intersection of games and education, visit GamesLearningSociety.org. Altair and the overall story of Assassins and Templars, continue to be a major point in gaming, and will likely continue for decades.