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Abbasids_and_Fatimids

Abbasids and Fatimids

The Fall of the Umayyad Caliphate

  • Led by Abu al-Abbas, a revolution in 750 CE resulted in the downfall of the Umayyad Caliphate.

  • The Umayyad Dynasty favored Arab Muslims and excluded non-Arabs, leading to internal discontent.

  • The Abbasid Dynasty was formed after defeating Umayyad troops in a major battle.

The Abbasid Caliphate

  • Established by Abu al-Abbas as-Saffah, a descendant of Muhammad's uncle.

  • The capital shifted to Baghdad in 762 CE, transforming Islamic cultural and political life.

  • The period (750–1258) is marked as a golden age of art, culture, and scholarship.

  • Samarra also served as a temporary capital with significant architectural developments.

Decline of the Abbasid Caliphate

  • By the 10th century, the Abbasids lost political unity, with local dynasties emerging in Egypt, Iran, etc.

  • The Buyids and Seljuqs held power in Baghdad, reducing the Abbasids to spiritual leaders.

  • The sack of Baghdad by Mongols in 1258 ended the Abbasid's political influence.

Key Points on the Abbasid Dynasty

  • The Abbasids moved the capital to Baghdad, supporting non-Arab Muslims.

  • Persian bureaucracy replaced the Arab aristocracy, with new roles like vizier and emir.

  • The dynasty maintained caliphs for over 300 years, fostering cultural development.

  • The Fatimid dynasty broke away in 909, forming a separate caliphate until 1171 CE.

  • The Abbasid influence gradually diminished politically but continued religiously.

The Golden Age of Islam

  • Baghdad became the epicenter of cultural and intellectual achievements.

  • The House of Wisdom was established, attracting scholars of various backgrounds.

  • The Translation Movement preserved ancient Greek knowledge, enhancing various disciplines.

  • Significant figures: Avicenna (medicine), Al-Khwarizmi (algebra).

  • The Mongols' capture of Baghdad is often seen as the end of this golden era.

Innovations and Cultural Developments

  • The Abbasids improved papermaking, expanding access to written knowledge.

  • Artistic advancements included ceramics, metalwork, textiles, and illuminated manuscripts.

  • New techniques like arabesque decoration became prevalent.

Baghdad: The Capital

  • Located strategically between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, it became a trading hub.

  • Built as a circular city, it became a vibrant center of culture and trade.

Al-Mustansiriya Madrasa

  • Established in 1227 CE, it was a key center for Islamic higher education, focusing on Islamic law.

  • Featured a four-iwan design and was pivotal in consolidating Sunni Islam teachings.

Samarra: Architectural Significance

  • Founded as a new capital, renowned for its extensive palaces and mosques, marking a unique era of Abbasid architecture.

  • Unique architectural elements included spiral minarets and extensive stucco decoration.

The Fatimid Caliphate

  • Emerged in the 10th century as a Shi'a opposition to the Abbasid authority.

  • Established Cairo as a new capital, rivaling Baghdad’s cultural status.

  • Influenced decorative arts and architecture, creating unique styles that blended various cultural elements.

Notable Fatimid Structures

  • Al-Azhar Mosque was both a center for Isma'ili learning and a significant architectural accomplishment.

  • The Mosque of al-Hakim is known for its monumental entrance and innovative design.

  • The Mosque of al-Aqmar is noted for its exceptional façade and historical significance.