History Extra podcast
The Abbasid caliphate: everything you wanted to know
Aug 24, 2024
Hugh Kennedy, a historian specializing in the Islamic world's history, joins Emily Briffett to explore the Abbasid caliphate's fascinating past. They discuss how the Abbasids rose to power and established Baghdad as a cultural capital. The conversation highlights the vibrant intellectual life during the Golden Age, featuring influential scholars and poets. They also touch on the complex coexistence of different religious communities and the factors leading to the caliphate's decline, culminating in the impactful Mongol invasion.
49:35
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Quick takeaways
- The Abbasid Caliphs utilized military support and strategic governance to establish a vast empire, starting with the capital Baghdad.
- Their era marked a Golden Age of Islam, characterized by significant cultural and intellectual advancements due to multicultural interactions.
Deep dives
Origins and Rise of the Abbasid Caliphs
The Abbasid Caliphs emerged as a ruling dynasty in the Islamic world starting in 750 AD, succeeding the Umayyad dynasty after a period marked by dissatisfaction among the population. They capitalized on the growing discontent with Umayyad rule, particularly in the Khorasan region, where they found considerable support among marginalized Muslims. Led by the enigmatic figure Abu Muslim, the Abbasids successfully mobilized military forces and overthrew the Umayyads, gaining prominence not only in Iraq but across a vast area from North Africa to Central Asia. The establishment of their new capital, Baghdad, in 762 AD marked a significant step in their rise, as it became a center for trade, culture, and administration within the Islamic Empire.
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