Historical Events tagged with "umayyad"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Military & Warfare

Tariq ibn Ziyad's Victory Over Visigoths

July 19th, 711 1313 years ago

The Battle of Guadalete saw Tariq ibn Ziyad lead Umayyad forces to a decisive victory against the Visigothic army commanded by King Roderic. Located near the Guadalete River in southern Spain, this confrontation marked a significant turning point in the early stages of the Umayyad conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. Roderic's forces failed to unify adequately against the well-organized and motivated Muslim army, resulting in a critical defeat for the Visigoths. The battle set the stage for the rapid expansion of Umayyad control across Hispania.

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Military & Warfare

Umayyad Victory at Battle of Marj Rahit

August 18th, 684 1340 years ago

A decisive conflict in Syria where Umayyad forces defeated the supporters of Ibn al-Zubayr. This battle was crucial in solidifying Umayyad authority over the region, showcasing the military prowess of the Umayyad dynasty against rival factions during a turbulent period of Islamic history.

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Military & Warfare

Kaaba Catches Fire During Meccan Siege

October 31st, 683 1341 years ago

During a siege in Mecca, the Kaaba was set ablaze, destroying its physical form. The incident was part of the larger conflict involving the Umayyad and rebel forces. As the city experienced upheaval, the sacred structure became a casualty of war, leading to significant religious and political ramifications. The fire engulfed the Kaaba, marking a pivotal moment in Islamic history.

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Military & Warfare

Massacre of Medina's Citizens by Yazid I

August 26th, 683 1341 years ago

Yazid I's forces besieged Medina, killing around 11,000 inhabitants, including notable companions of the Prophet Muhammad. This confrontation arose from the city's refusal to pledge allegiance to Yazid's rule. The brutal actions of the army were a significant response to the resistance faced in the region, leading to widespread devastation and loss of life.

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Religion & Philosophy

Martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali at Karbala

October 10th, 680 1344 years ago

Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, was killed during a confrontation at Karbala, present-day Iraq. He led a small group of followers against the forces of Yazid ibn Muawiya, who sought to consolidate his rule over the Islamic community. Husayn's refusal to pledge allegiance to Yazid was rooted in his belief that Yazid's legitimacy was flawed. The conflict escalated into a battle, wherein Husayn and many of his companions were ultimately slain, while the remaining women and children were captured, leading to significant repercussions throughout the Muslim world.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of Ali Marks Caliphate's End

January 26th, 661 1364 years ago

Ali ibn Abi Talib, the last caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate, was assassinated in a plot orchestrated by his political adversaries. This event unfolded in Kufa, present-day Iraq, where Ali had established his seat of power following the tumultuous period of civil strife. His death led to a significant shift in the Islamic community's leadership and marked the effective end of the Rashidun Caliphate. Ali was not only recognized for his role in Islam as the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad but also as a warrior and political leader. The aftermath of his assassination fueled further division within the Muslim community, ultimately resulting in the establishment of the Umayyad Caliphate.

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