The Umayyads & Abbasids
History: KS3, topic 1.3.3
The Umayyads and Abbasids
While the Abbasids ruled in the east, the Umayyad Caliphate was a major power in the west.
The Umayyads in Cordoba
- The Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba in Spain was a major power in the west.
- After the Abbasids took over the Umayyad Caliphate in Damascus, Abd al-Rahman I established an independent emirate (kingdom).
- Abd al-Rahman I was a surviving Umayyad prince.
- Abd al-Rahman I established the emirate in Cordoba, Spain, in 756 AD.
- By the year 929 AD, the emirate of Abd al-Rahman I was declared a caliphate (empire) by Abd al-Rahman III.
The Umayyad Caliphate
- The Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba became a centre of cultural and intellectual life.
- The Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba was known for its achievements in architecture, learning and tolerance.
- Abbas Ibn Firnas, an inventor in Cordoba, made early attempts at human flying in the 9th Century.
- Abbas Ibn Firnas's experiments inspired later inventors and showcased the innovative spirit of the Islamic Golden Age.
Science and Mathematics
- The Abbasid Caliphate was a pioneer in fields like:
- Algebra
- Medicine
- Astronomy.
- Groundbreaking contributions that laid the foundations for future scientific discoveries were made by scholars such as:
- Al-Khwarizmi
- Al Razi
- Ibn Sina
Culture, Literature and Philosophy
- Both the Abbasid and Umayyad Caliphates facilitated trade and cultural exchange between Europe, Asia and Africa.
- Cultural exchange enriched Islamic culture with diverse influences.
- Cultural exchange and helped spread knowledge across different regions.
- Islamic scholars preserved and translated ancient texts, making significant contributions to literature and philosophy.
Architectural Marvels
- The Great Mosque of Cordoba is renowned for its stunning arches and intricate decoration.
- The Great Mosque of Cordoba was built by the Umayyads.
- In the east, the Abbasids constructed impressive buildings.
- For example, the House of Wisdom in Baghdad, a humongous library that symbolises the era’s intellectual achievements.
Economic Prosperity
- The strategic locations of Baghdad and Cordoba facilitated trade.
- Trade contributed to the wealth and economic stability of both caliphates.
- The wealth helped the flourishing of arts and sciences.
Test yourself on The Umayyads & Abbasids
In which year did Abd al-Rahman I establish the emirate in Cordoba, Spain?
What was the Abbas Ibn Firnas, an inventor in Cordoba famous for?
What were the two caliphates that ruled east and west of the Islamic Empire around 1000 CE ?