When ISIS stormed Syria, 82 year-old archeologist Khaled al-Asaad decided that history’s treasures were worth dying for.

Islamic State militants captured al-Asaad and demanded that he reveal the location of priceless ancient antiques the Syrian government smuggled to safety shortly before the organization’s arrival. Al-Asaad was interrogated and tortured for a full month but refused to give ISIS the information. The archeologist was publicly beheaded for his refusal Tuesday.

ISIS has systematically destroyed Syrian and Iraqi historical artifacts and monuments, and even blew up a 3,000 year-old temple. This is all part of the organization’s effort to erase history and loot treasure. It is estimated that the terrorist group is bringing in millions of dollars in revenue through selling historical artifacts alone.

Al-Asaad was a leading authority on the ancient world, and he died to protect more Syrian antiques from falling into ISIS’ grasp. Perhaps he wasn’t an American, but we can’t help but admire al-Asaad’s last act of defiance.