Abu Taur of Huesca facts for kids
Abu Tawr (Arabic: أبو ثور) was an important Muslim nobleman and governor (called a wali) of Washka in Al-Andalus (which is modern-day Spain). He might have been part of the Banu Salama family (Arabic: بني سلمة). Some historians also think he could be Abu Tawr ibn Qasi, a member of the powerful Muwallad Banu Qasi family.
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Abu Tawr: A Key Figure in Al-Andalus
Abu Tawr played a significant role in the history of Al-Andalus during the 8th century. He was known for his political actions and alliances with powerful leaders of his time.
An Alliance with Charlemagne
In 777, Abu Tawr attended a big meeting called the imperial diet in Paderborn. There, he joined forces with Sulayman al-Arabi, who was the governor of Barcelona, and Husayn, the governor of Zaragoza. Together, they made an offer to Charlemagne, the powerful Frankish king.
They offered to give their lands to Charlemagne. In return, they asked for his military help. Their goal was to start a new rebellion against the Emir Abd ar-Rahman I, who ruled Al-Andalus. They hoped to bring back the power of the Abbasid rulers in the region.
The Outcome of the Plan
Charlemagne agreed to their plan. In 778, he led his army into Al-Andalus. He successfully took control of Barcelona and Washka (Huesca). However, Husayn, the governor of Zaragoza, changed his mind and broke his promise.
Charlemagne's army then tried to attack Zaragoza, but they were not successful. Because of Husayn's betrayal and the failed attack, the alliance fell apart. The Frankish army had to leave Al-Andalus. On their way back, they suffered a big defeat at the Roncesvaux Pass.
Later Efforts
Even after this setback, Abu Tawr continued to be involved in politics. In 790, he tried to form another important alliance. This time, he proposed working together with Louis the Pious, who was Charlemagne's son and later became emperor.
See also
In Spanish: Abu Taur de Huesca para niños