Empire

138. The Graceful Reed: Ruling the Islamic Empire

Apr 8, 2024

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.

43:18

Episode guests

Hugh Kennedy

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

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.

Intro

2min

Upcoming Live Event and Exciting Podcast Promotion

2min

The Rise of Al-Qaizaran: A Powerful Woman in the Abbasid Caliphate

2min

The Flourishing of Baghdad: Cultural and Intellectual Renaissance

6min

Rise of Al-Khazoran: From Captivity to Power

26min

The Matriarch of the Abbasid Empire

6min

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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Producer: Callum Hill

Exec Producer: Neil Fearn

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Empire

138. The Graceful Reed: Ruling the Islamic Empire

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

The Rise of Al-Kazarun in the Abbasid Empire

The Magnificence of Abbasid Baghdad and the Influence of Al-Kazarun

The Political Intrigues and Power Dynamics of Al-Kazarun's Era

Legacy and Memory of Al-Kazarun in Early Islamic History

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts