Abdallah II of Ifriqiya facts for kids

Abu 'l-Abbas Abdallah II (Arabic: أبو العباس عبد الله, Abū l-ʿAbbās ʿAbd Allāh) was a ruler, known as an Emir, of a region called Ifriqiya. He ruled for a short time, from 902 to 903. Ifriqiya was a powerful area in North Africa, roughly where modern-day Tunisia is located.

Becoming Emir

Abdallah II became Emir because his father, Ibrahim II, was no longer allowed to rule. People in Ifriqiya and even the Abbasid Caliph (a powerful leader) in Baghdad were unhappy with Ibrahim II's harsh rule.

A Message from the Caliph

In late 901 or early 902, the Caliph al-Mu'tadid sent a messenger to Ifriqiya. The message said that Ibrahim II was being removed from his position. It also named his son, Abu al-Abbas Abdallah, as the new Emir. At this time, Abdallah was away fighting in Sicily.

Ibrahim II Steps Down

Surprisingly, Ibrahim II accepted the Caliph's decision without arguing. He seemed to change his ways, releasing prisoners and giving money to people in need. Ibrahim II then officially gave up his power to his son. Abdallah returned from Sicily in early 902 to become the new Emir.

Abdallah's Rule

When Abdallah became Emir, he faced several challenges. He tried to make changes to how things were run in Ifriqiya.

Dealing with Local Groups

Abdallah wanted to reduce the power of certain local groups, especially the Kutama Berbers. These groups had a lot of independence. He also wanted to stop the growing influence of a religious movement led by Abu 'Abdullah al-Shi'i. However, he was not very successful in these efforts.

Changing the Laws

Abdallah also tried to change the legal system in Ifriqiya. He wanted to replace the local Malikite law schools with Hanifite scholars from Iraq. This plan also did not work out.

The End of His Rule

Abdallah's rule was very short. He died on July 27, 903. His son, Abu Muda Ziyadat Allah, took over as the next Emir.

See Also

• List of Emirs of Ifriqiya