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.