Hugh Kennedy, an expert on the Islamic Caliphate, dives into the riveting life of al-Khayzuran, who transformed from a slave to the Queen Mother of the Abbasid Caliphate. Their discussion reveals how she navigated and influenced politics across a vast empire during her time. From her surprising rise to power to the intricate family dynamics that led to her son’s throne, Kennedy sheds light on al-Khayzuran's complex legacy and the cultural renaissance of Baghdad. Her story is a captivating blend of intrigue, influence, and power.
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Al-Khayzuran's Rise
Al-Khayzuran, an Abbasid caliph's wife, rose from slavery to immense power.
Initially, she concealed her family, only revealing them after achieving status.
insights INSIGHT
Social Mobility Through Slavery
Al-Khayzuran's slave origins provided social mobility opportunities unavailable to commoners.
This proximity to power allowed her to showcase her talents and shrewdness.
insights INSIGHT
Power Struggle and Family Feud
Al-Khayzuran's power struggle with her son, Caliph al-Hadi, stemmed from his attempt to limit her political influence.
This resulted in a bitter feud, with al-Hadi restricting her activities and her favoring her other son, Harun.
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Sold as a slave to the great Abbasid Caliph, al-Khayzuran quickly rose to the very top of the pyramid. Through marriage and motherhood, she became wife of the caliph and then Queen Mother and in both instances she wielded extraordinary power. In the court at Baghdad - the very heart of the civilised world - al-Khayzuran had major influence and it is possible that during her lifetime, she was the most powerful woman in the world, determining politics from Morocco to Afghanistan. Some even say she assassinated one of her sons, and put a second on the throne. Listen as William and Anita are joined by Hugh Kennedy to discuss the extraordinary life of al-Khayzuran.
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