Order of Assassins

The Order of Assassins is an ancient Muslim group founded by Hasan ibn al-Sabbah. Hasan founded the group in order to protect his sect of Islam. The word "assassin" is supposedly derived from the term "hashashin," the term Hasan's follower's referred to themselves as. Before committing the murders, the hashashins would eat hashish (marijuana). The hashashins were adept at stealth and surprise killings, again leading to the creation of the term "assassination."[1]

## Popular Culture[edit]

The Order of Assassins has gained recent fame due to its depiction in the novel Angels and Demons, by Dan Brown, of da Vinci Code fame. It also was featured in the Assassin's Creed video game franchise, albeit a highly fictionalized version.

## References[edit]

1. ↑ Gus Martin. Understanding Terrorism: Challenges, Perspectives, and Issues.