The Abbasid Dynasty (763-1517)
Before the Abbasids, the Umayyad Caliphate ruled the land. The Abbasids murdered the Umayyad caliphate with one survivor. To learn more about the Umayyads click here. Once the Abbasid overthrew the Umayyads, they moved the capital from Damascus to Baghdad. Baghdad was closer to their power base, in the east. The Abbasids also held on to power by created a standing army, a fighting force that is maintained during periods of war and peace. They declared that everybody had equal rights-- Christians and Jews could also work in government. The Abbasids began to support arts and learning. As a result, Arabic culture enjoyed a golden age.
Many challenges led to decline of the Abbasid dynasty. Factions, or opposing groups, challenged Abbasid rule. The Abbasids ignored government responsibilities. For example, they did little to protect merchants from bandits. This led to poor trade and higher taxes. People were getting annoyed with the Abbasid selfishness. One group, the Fatimids also challenged Abbasid rule. The Fatimids were Shi'a Muslims, claiming descent of Fatima, a daughter of Muhammad. The Abbasids, on the other hand, followed the Sunni branch of Islam. The Fatimids drove the Abbasids out of modern day Egypt and Tunisia. Another challenge the Abbasids faced were the Seljuk Turks. In 1055, the Seljuk Turks captured Baghdad. The Seljuk leader became emperor but allowed the Abbasid caliph to remain the religious leader. Later, in 1258, the Mongols killed the Abbasid caliph, and its dynasty.
Sound and Light Show
If you want to know more about the history of the Abbasid Empire, visit the Sound and Light show in Damascus. The Sound and Light show plays a reenactment (with only sound and light) of the rise and decline of the abbasids. Playing Monday- Saturday every night at 8:00 pm. Book your tickets now!