The Caliphs

Recent Episodes

Episode 90: Conclusions

Posted March 22, 2025 • 02:27:38

Now that we've completed our journey through the primary sources, it's time to reflect on all we've covered. We search for insights, not just about...

Episode 89: Al Muttaqi, al Mustakfi, and al Muti’

Posted September 22, 2024 • 00:25:51

The Abbasid fall from grace was long and messy. It’s been a while since the dynasty produced a powerful caliph, the last one being the almighty restorer...

Episode 88: Amir al umara’

Posted September 1, 2024 • 00:29:26

The creation of the role of amir al umara’ transformed the political landscape in Baghdad. It attracted men of influence to court, and they did not...

Episode 87: Al Radi the irrelevant

Posted August 11, 2024 • 00:31:12

We’ve reached the end of the road as far as Abbasid authority is concerned. Although it had waxed and waned before, there would be no recovering from...

Episode 86: Al Qaher’s folly

Posted July 14, 2024 • 00:33:35

A chaotic period followed al Muqtadir’s death in battle. Although officials quickly reached a consensus on the elevation of his successor, the very...