What Happened This Year 861

Historical Events from This Year 861

Politics & Government

Assassination of Caliph al-Mutawakkil

December 11th, 861 1163 years ago

Al-Mutawakkil, the Abbasid caliph, was assassinated by his Turkish guard, leading to the rise of al-Muntasir as the new caliph. This event marked the beginning of a tumultuous period known as the 'Anarchy at Samarra', characterized by power struggles and instability within the Abbasid empire. The transition prompted significant shifts in governance and military influence.

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