PELAYO, el REINO de ASTURIAS vs. el Emirato de Córdoba 🏰 Documental Historia de ESPAÑA MEDIEVAL 2
Introduction
The transcript introduces the topic of the Middle Ages in Spain, specifically focusing on the Kingdoms of Asturias and Pamplona versus the Emirate of Cordoba.
The Arab Invasion and Formation of Al-Ándalus
- In 711, Arab and Berber troops defeated King Rodrigo in Guadalete, marking the beginning of the Muslim invasion of the Iberian Peninsula.
- The conquered territory was renamed Al-Ándalus, while the remaining regions were referred to as Isbaniya.
- Some Spanish surrendered and retained their property and religion, while others fled northward.
- A small resistance led by Don Pelayo emerged in the Cantabrian and Asturian mountains.
- The Battle of Covadonga marked the beginning of this resistance.
The Kingdom of Asturias
- Don Pelayo organized a resistance against Muslim rule and established the Kingdom of Asturias.
- Don Pelayo was succeeded by Favila and then by Alfonso I, his son-in-law.
- Alfonso I expanded the kingdom's territory through military campaigns.
From Dependent Emirate to Independent Emirate
This section discusses the political structure in Al-Andalus during this period.
Political Structure in Al-Andalus
- Valis (territorial governors) were appointed throughout Al-Andalus, with an Emir having more military authority.
- These governors were dependent on the Caliph, who held supreme political-religious authority from Damascus.
Abbasid-Umayyad Conflict
- Chaos ensued within Al-Andalus as different factions fought for power.
- In 751, Abu al-'Abbas massacred most members of Umayyad family, establishing the Abbasid Caliphate.
- Abderramán I, the only surviving Umayyad, arrived in Al-Andalus during a civil war and proclaimed himself Emir.
- He broke away from the Abbasid Caliphate but did not assume the title of caliph.
Military Campaigns and Society in Al-Andalus
This section focuses on military campaigns and society in Al-Andalus.
Military Campaigns
- Abderramán I built a large army of mercenaries, including Berbers and Spanish-Swedish slaves.
- He defeated the Asturian King Fruela I and expanded his control over Galicia and Álava through razias (small incursions).
Society in Al-Andalus
- The society in Al-Andalus was complex, with Muslims at the top of the social pyramid (Umma).
- Mosques like the Mosque of Cordoba were constructed for Andalusian Muslims.
- Christians referred to these Muslims as Saracens, Moors, Mohammedans, or Ishmaelites.
Diversity within Muslim Population
This section explores the diversity within the Muslim population in Al-Andalus.
Arab Clans
- Within the Arab population, there were different clans such as Qaysíes (Arabs of the north) and Yemenis or Kalbíes (Arabs of the south).
Berbers and Muladíes
- Berbers played a significant role as warriors from Maghreb who had been conquered and Islamized by Arabs.
- Although Arabs often despised them, they relied on their military strength.
- Muladíes refers to Hispanogothic converts to Islam, who formed a distinct group within Al-Andalus.
Religious and Social Groups
This section discusses religious and social groups in Al-Andalus.
Mozarabes and Jews
- Mozarabes were Christians who did not convert to Islam but adopted Arab customs.
- They maintained Visigothic institutions and had leaders who collected taxes for the Arabs.
- Jews lived in separate neighborhoods called Jewish quarters, alongside Muslims and Christians.
- These groups were referred to as Dimmies (People of the Book) and enjoyed relative tolerance.
Taxation System
- The emir imposed various taxes on the population, including Zacat (handout), Jaray or Jarach (territorial tax), and Yizya (tax on non-Muslims).
- The aristocracy received privileges while the common people faced heavier taxation.
The Role of the Imam and the Coup in Zaragoza
This section discusses the role of the Imam as a spiritual leader within communities and their authority over the population. It also mentions a coup in Zaragoza led by Sulaymán al-Arabi, who sought help from Frankish king Charlemagne.
The Role of the Imam and Tax Collection
- The Imam was responsible for leading prayers in mosques and could be a spiritual leader within communities.
- They had no authority over the population but collected taxes.
- The Imam's role was separate from that of the vali or governor.
The Coup in Zaragoza
- In 778, Sulaymán al-Arabi, a vali of Barcelona, staged a coup in Zaragoza.
- He sought assistance from Frankish king Charlemagne.
- Charlemagne arrived personally to besiege Zaragoza but had to withdraw due to attacks from Saxons in northern France.
Frankish King's Retreat and Battle of Roncesvalles
This section describes how Charlemagne's retreat from Zaragoza led to the destruction of Pamplona. It also mentions Roldan facing Basques in the Battle of Roncesvalles and liberating East Sulayman.
Retreat and Destruction
- During his retreat, Charlemagne's forces destroyed Pamplona out of anger.
- They continued towards the Pyrenees where Roldan faced a group of angry Basques in the Battle of Roncesvalles.
- Roldan successfully liberated East Sulayman during this battle.
Succession Issues and Social Discontent
This section discusses the challenges faced by Al-Ándalus under the rule of Hisham I, including succession issues, rebellions in Toledo, Zaragoza, and Merida, and social discontent.
Challenges Faced by Al-Ándalus
- After Hisham I became Amir in 788, Al-Ándalus began to face difficulties.
- Succession issues arose along with rebellions in Toledo, Zaragoza, and Merida.
- Social discontent was prevalent during this time.
Repression and Execution in Toledo
This section highlights the repression faced by muladíes (converts) and the execution of prominent individuals in Toledo. It also mentions the total number of executions that took place.
Discrimination and Repression
- Muladíes felt discriminated against during this period.
- The Maliki faction sought more Muslim orthodoxy and were rigorous.
- Repression was employed as a solution to these tensions.
The Journey of the Moat
- The Journey of the Moat is a well-known event in Toledo where numerous Spanish-speaking personalities were executed.
- A total of 5300 executions took place in one afternoon.
Frankish Expansion into Pyrenees
This section discusses how the Franks expanded their control over the Pyrenees region, including Pamplona and Catalonia. It also introduces La Marca Hispánica as a border territory between Al-Ándalus and the Carolingian Empire.
Frankish Expansion
- In 800, the Franks conquered the entire Pyrenees region from Pamplona to Catalonia.
- This led to the creation of La Marca Hispánica as a border territory between Al-Ándalus and the Carolingian Empire.
Alfonso II of Asturias and the Move to Oviedo
This section focuses on Alfonso II of Asturias and his reign, including his parentage, attempted assassination by his uncle Mauregato, and the move of the capital to Oviedo.
Alfonso II's Reign
- Alfonso II became king in 783 after facing an attempted assassination by his uncle Mauregato.
- He sought refuge in Álava until he could return to Pravia and claim his rightful throne.
- The capital was later moved to Oviedo.
Religious Buildings in Oviedo
This section highlights the religious buildings constructed during Alfonso II's reign in Oviedo, including San Julián de los Prados church and the Church of Santa María de Bendones.
Religious Buildings in Oviedo
- Under Alfonso II's rule, several pre-Romanesque churches were built in Oviedo.
- Examples include San Julián de los Prados church and the Church of Santa María de Bendones.
Ramiro I and Hostilities with Muslims
This section discusses Ramiro I's reign, including the construction of the Church of Santa María de Naranco. It also mentions hostilities between Christians and Muslims during this period.
Ramiro I's Rule
- Ramiro I ordered the construction of the Church of Santa María de Naranco.
- Hostilities between Christians and Muslims increased during this time.
Expulsion of Muslims from Álava
This section describes how Muslim forces under Al-Hakam I suffered a defeat in Álava and were expelled from the area by combined forces of Astur-Leonese and Vascones. It also mentions the creation of a border using the Goya and Hispanic population.
Expulsion of Muslims from Álava
- Muslim forces under Al-Hakam I faced a significant defeat in Álava.
- They were subsequently expelled from the area by combined forces of Astur-Leonese and Vascones.
- To create a border, the Goya and Hispanic population from the northern plateau were relocated to the north, creating a no-man's land along the Douro area.
Religious Themes and Jacobean Cult
This section discusses religious themes during Alfonso II's reign, including the emergence of the jacobeo cult related to Santiago el Mayor. It also mentions doubts about Santiago's stay in Hispania.
Religious Themes
- The jacobeo cult, related to Santiago el Mayor, emerged during this period.
- There are doubts regarding Santiago's stay in Hispania.
- Possessing the remains of an apostle was considered an honor in Christianized Europe.
Quotation of Adoptionism and Beato de Liébana
This section highlights the Quotation of Adoptionism, a heresy promoted by the Toledan church that denied Jesus Christ's divine side until his death. It also mentions Beato de Liébana, a Cantabrian monk known for his commentary on San Juan's Apocalypse.
Quotation of Adoptionism
- The Toledan church promoted Adoptionism, which denied Jesus Christ's divine side until his death.
- This belief was considered heretical.
Beato de Liébana
- Beato de Liébana, a Cantabrian monk, was known for his commentary on San Juan's Apocalypse.
- He interpreted the Islamic invasion as the beginning of the end of the world and the arrival of the Antichrist.
Kingdom of Pamplona and Basque Origins
This section introduces the Kingdom of Pamplona, which emerged during Alfonso II's reign. It also mentions its Basque origins and its connection to Aquitaine.
Kingdom of Pamplona
- The Kingdom of Pamplona appeared during Alfonso II's reign.
- Its population was believed to have Basque origins.
- During the Visigothic period, the Merovingian Franks created the Duchy of Vasconia or Gascony within Aquitaine.
Genial de Vasconia
- Genial de Vasconia played a significant role in directing affairs in this region.
Muslim Control and Tribute
This section discusses how Muslim control over Vasconia was short-lived due to intervention from Duke Odón the Great. It also mentions tribute payments made by Basques to Muslims.
Muslim Control and Tribute
- Muslim control over Vasconia did not last long.
- Duke Odón the Great took control
The Banu Qasi and the Political Centralization of Andalusia
This section discusses the relationship between Arista and the Banu Qasi, a powerful family in the Ebro area. It also highlights the reforms made by Emir Abderramán II to restore political centralization in Andalusia.
Arista's Relation with the Banu Qasi
- Arista was related to the Banu Qasi through his maternal lineage.
- The Banu Qasi were descendants of Casio, a Visigothic count who converted to Islam and became a vassal of the emir.
- Arista held a post under Emir Abderramán II, who ascended to the Cordovan throne.
Reforms and Political Centralization
- Emir Abderramán II implemented successful reforms that restored Andalusian splendor based on political centralization.
- The state was headed by the Divan, a high-ranking government body led by the Hayib (prime minister).
- Under the Divan, there were two sections directed by viziers: Chancellery (bureaucracy) and Treasury (taxes).
Cultural Contributions and Innovations in Al-Andalus
This section explores cultural contributions and innovations introduced during this period in Al-Andalus.
Cultural Contributions
- A large library was built under Emir Abderramán II, hosting various works including those of Aristotle rescued from oblivion.
- Indo-Arabic numbers were introduced in Europe during this time.
- Paper, a Chinese invention, started being used in Al-Andalus.
Innovations and Autonomy
- New innovations such as irrigation-based intensive agriculture revolutionized farming practices.
- The border territory was divided into three brands: Superior, Middle, and Lower.
- The more remote territories had more autonomy and were prone to revolts.
Military Fortifications and Martyrs of Cordoba
This section discusses the construction of military fortifications in Al-Andalus and the persecution of Mozarabic Christians.
Military Fortifications
- Military fortifications like the Alcazaba de Mérida and the Alcázar de Toledo were built to protect against rebellious Berber hordes.
- These fortresses provided security for exalted Mozarabic Christians.
Martyrs of Cordoba
- Many Mozarabic Christians were executed as blasphemers in an episode known as "The Martyrs of Cordoba."
The Battle of Albelda and Viking Invasions
This section covers the mythical Battle of Albelda between Asturian King Ordoño I and the Banu Qasi. It also mentions Viking invasions in Al-Andalus.
The Battle of Albelda
- The Battle of Albelda was a legendary battle between King Ordoño I and the pamploneses (people from Pamplona) against the Banu Qasi.
- The Christians took refuge in a La Rioja castle and won with the arrival of Santiago Matamoros (St. James), who became a symbol in the myth called "The Battle of Clavijo."
Viking Invasions
- Vikings arrived in Al-Andalus around 840 with their fast drakkars.
- They looted various regions, including Seville, taking advantage of their seasonal migration southward.
- To counter these invasions, fortresses, walls, towers, and shipyards were built throughout Al-Andalus.
Norman Vikings and the Emir's Countermeasures
This section focuses on the Norman Viking invasions in Al-Andalus and the countermeasures taken by the emir.
Norman Viking Invasions
- Norman Vikings arrived in Al-Andalus around 840, looting extensively.
- They managed to reach Seville by overcoming the Guadalquivir river.
- The Muslims faced difficulties in repelling them.
Emir's Countermeasures
- The emir decided to build fortresses, walls, towers, and shipyards to defend against future Viking invasions.
- These measures aimed to create a powerful fleet capable of retaliating if the Vikings returned.
Musa ibn Musa and Viking Captures
This section discusses Musa ibn Musa, a muladí governor of the Banu Qasi family, and his capture by Vikings.
Musa ibn Musa
- Musa ibn Musa was a muladí governor of the Superior Brand from the powerful Banu Qasi family.
- He conditioned his loyalty to the emir in exchange for significant benefits.
Viking Capture
- Vikings captured King García Íñiguez of Pamplona in 859.
- A ransom of almost 100,000 dinars was paid for his release.
Arab Agricultural Revolution and Trade
This section highlights the Arab agricultural revolution in Al-Andalus and its trade relations with Byzantium and Carolingians.
Arab Agricultural Revolution
- The key to Al-Andalus' success was an intensive agriculture revolution based on irrigation.
- New crops such as rice, sugar, aubergines, cotton, and palm trees were introduced.
- Complex irrigation systems, including ditches, ferris wheels, and the Qanat technique, were developed.
Trade Relations
- Al-Andalus sought to do business with Byzantium and Carolingians.
- Textiles, metals, weapons, and even slaves were exported.
- Despite the prohibition of wine in the Quran, trade in wine was also significant.
Reforms and Conflicts within Al-Andalus
This section discusses reforms within Al-Andalus under Muhammad I and conflicts arising from religious tensions.
Reforms under Muhammad I
- Under Muhammad I's government, reforms initiated by his father Abderramán II continued.
- The Holy War against Christian kingdoms in the north was pursued.
Religious Tensions and Conflicts
- The beheading of St. Eulogius of Cordoba and other Christians led to tensions within Al-Andalus.
- Many Mozarabs (Christian subjects) became rebellious.
- Toledo faced a major rebellion with assistance sought from Asturian King Ordoño I.
Musa ibn Musa's Defeat and Alfonso III's Expansion
This section covers Musa ibn Musa's defeat and the expansion of Alfonso III in the Kingdom of Asturias.
Musa ibn Musa's Defeat
- Musa ibn Musa suffered a defeat against King Ordoño I, which allowed Emir Muhammad I to remove him from power in 862.
Alfonso III's Expansion
- Alfonso III el Magno governed Asturias from 866 onwards.
- He took advantage of the crisis in Cordoba to recover territories north of the River Douro.
- Christian territories expanded from Burgos to Oporto.
Reconquest and Population Recovery
This section discusses the reconquest efforts of Alfonso III and the challenges faced in repopulating Muslim-conquered territories.
Reconquest Efforts
- Alfonso III's conquest operations extended as far as Sierra Morena.
- Emir Muhammad I was occupied with internal uprisings, allowing Alfonso III to make gains.
Repopulation Challenges
- Many districts conquered by Muslims were left almost depopulated.
- Significant efforts were required to repopulate these regions.
Settlements in Burgos, Zamora, and Oporto
This section discusses the cities of Burgos, Zamora, and Oporto as important settlements during this time period.
Settlements in Burgos and Zamora
- Large numbers of new settlers arrived in Burgos and Zamora.
- Vimara Pérez became the first governor of the county of Portucale in Oporto.
Castle of Gormaz
- The Castle of Gormaz in Soria was born from an old Muslim stronghold.
Alfonso III's Contributions to Art and Culture
This section highlights Alfonso III's contributions to art and culture during his reign.
Albeldense Chronicle
- The Albeldense Chronicle was written during Alfonso III's reign, summarizing the history of Rome and Spain up to that time.
Embellishments in Oviedo and Other Cities
- Alfonso III embellished Oviedo bag and other cities with forts, palaces, and churches.
- Notable structures include the Church of San Salvador de Valdediós, San Adriano de Tuñón, Foncalada Fountain in Oviedo.
- The Cruz de la Victoria symbolizes the Asturian kingdom.
Marriage Alliance with Navarrese Princess Jimena Garcés
- Alfonso III married Jimena Garcés, a Navarrese princess.
- Asturians and Pamplonians fought together against Muhammad ibn Lope for control over La Rioja.
Dynastic Changes in Asturias and Pamplona
This section discusses dynastic changes that occurred in Asturias and Pamplona during this period.
Alfonso III's Efforts to Recover Toledo
- Alfonso III focused on recovering Toledo, the old Visigothic capital, and succeeded in 906.
- He had to return quickly to Asturias due to threats from his children who wanted to keep the throne.
Overthrow of Íñiga Dynasty in Pamplona
- Fortún Garcés of the Íñiga Dynasty was overthrown by Sancho Garcés I of the Jimena dynasty in 905.
- Sancho preferred an alliance with Alfonso III and accelerated the expansion of the peninsula.
Pamploneses' Vassalage and Expansion
This section explores how Pamploneses made vassals out of other Eastern counties and expanded their territory.
Vassalage to Other Eastern Counties
- The Pamploneses made vassals out of other Eastern counties such as Aragon, Sobrarbe, Ribagorza, and part of La Rioja.
Establishment of Nájera as New Kingdom
- The court was established in the new Kingdom of Nájera.
- García Sánchez I took over the government under his father Sancho Garcés I's rule.
Catalan Counties under Carolingian Rule
This section focuses on the Catalan counties that were under Carolingian rule during this time period.
Division into Different Counties
- Catalonia was divided into different counties including Roussillon, Cerdanya, Ampurias, Urgel, Pallars, Gerona, Besalú.
- The most powerful county was Barcelona.
Wifredo I the Hairy as Count of Barcelona
- Wifredo I the Hairy became the count of Barcelona, appointed by the Frankish king Carlos II the Bald.
Wilfredo I's Autonomy and Expansion
This section discusses Wilfredo I's efforts to achieve autonomy and expand his territory.
Consolidation of Power
- Wilfredo I took advantage of internal wars among the Franks to consolidate power.
- He acquired Gerona and Besalú, achieved more autonomy, and ensured his family inherited his charges.
Repopulation of Plana de Vic
- Wilfredo I repopulated Plana de Vic in 878, transforming it into the County of Osona.
- He established a viscount, several bishops, and religious buildings such as the monastery of Santa María de Ripoll.
Civil War in Al-Andalus
This section explores the civil war that broke out in Al-Andalus in 888.
Causes of Civil War
- The civil war was caused by factors such as bad harvests, tax increases, and discontent among Muslims.
- Many poor Muslims sided with Christians against Arab rule.
Umar ibn Hafsún's Fortification at Bobastro
- Umar ibn Hafsún converted to Christianity and fortified the castle of Bobastro.
- Abderramán III fought against rebels like Hafsún in Málaga and Granada.
Abderramán III's Rise to Power
This section focuses on Abderramán III's rise to power during this period.
Defeat of Rebels
- Abderramán III used catapults to defeat rebels castle by castle in Andalusia.
- Notable victories include Calahorra and Pamplona, with the Battle of Valdejunquera being famous.
Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba
- In 929, Abderramán III proclaimed the Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba.
- This marked a resurgence of Andalusian power.
Dynastic Division in Christian Kingdoms
This section discusses the dynastic division that occurred in the Christian kingdoms during this time period.
Division among Alfonso III's Sons
- After Alfonso III's abdication in 910, his three sons divided the territory.
- Ordoño II ruled over the Kingdom of Galicia and Portugal, Garcia I over the Kingdom of León, and Fruela II over the Kingdom of Asturias.