Andalusian Political and Cultural Life during the Reign of Umayyad Prince Al-Monthir Bin Muhammad (273-275 AH.886-888 A.D)

Abstract

The main focus of this study is the political and cultural situations during the reign of Prince Al-Monthir Bin Muhammad (273-275H./886-888A.D), whose era represents an important station in the history of the Umayyad Emirate in Al-Andalus. His short reign almost dwarfs the general characteristics of the country at that time. In this era, the country experienced a political and geographical fragmentation: by rebel movements in Toledo, the Upper March, the West and the South of Al-Andalus; with encouragement and support of Christian Kingdoms. Despite the qualities of power, strength and firmness of Al-Monthir, his short reign did not enable him to achieve remarkable achievements in pushing these dangers away, so most of his efforts went in vain, then he paid his life as a price. Some believe that if his regime lasted long enough, he would have been able to create a big change in the features of the political map in Al-Andalus. Troubled political conditions did not prevent the emergence of many of his cultural exploits, especially with regards to his ministers, governors, judges and the religious architecture, literature and poetry during his reign.