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.
Al-Khayzuran, a former slave, rose to become Queen Mother, exercising immense political influence in the Abbasid Empire.
Her alliances and strategic decisions played a crucial role in shaping Abbasid politics and cultural advancement.
Deep dives
The Rise of Al-Kazarun in the Abbasid Empire
Al-Kazarun, a woman of Arab stock captured in her youth, rose to power as the wife of Abbasid Caliph Al-Makki. Her journey from obscurity to consort of the most powerful man in Western Eurasia made her a significant and influential figure in Middle Eastern politics.
The Magnificence of Abbasid Baghdad and the Influence of Al-Kazarun
During the 700s, the Abbasid Empire, under the rule of Al-Makki, witnessed a cultural and intellectual renaissance, epitomized by the grand city of Baghdad. Al-Kazarun's patronage, extensive wealth, and political acumen played a crucial role in shaping the empire's administration, economy, and cultural advancement.
The Political Intrigues and Power Dynamics of Al-Kazarun's Era
Al-Kazarun's influence extended beyond her consort's reign, with her strategic alliances and family ties shaping the course of Abbasid politics. Her patronage network, including the powerful Barmakids, wielded significant influence, leading to power struggles and eventual shifts in the empire's leadership.
Legacy and Memory of Al-Kazarun in Early Islamic History
After Al-Kazarun's passing, her legacy endured through the continued influence of her political allies and the institutional structures she helped establish. Her unparalleled rise from captured slave girl to pivotal political figure solidified her status as one of the most remarkable and powerful women in early Islamic history.
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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