A zealous freedom-fighter who has galvanized Islamic fundamentalists into a fighting force capable of toppling evil Western civilization, a simple man, pious, upstanding and principled - the moral leader of the faithful. This is the image Osama bin Laden wishes to project to the world. This volume examines the life of the renegade prophet, revealing a past laced with prostitutes, hedonism and alcohol abuse. With information provided by members of his family, this book traces the roots of his discontent, exploring his privileged childhood riven by jelousies and family politics. It paints the picture of a youth desperately seeking acceptance and a man whose need for attention and adulation set him upon an unbelievable course, ultimately leading to the catastrophic events of 11 September 2001.