Aixa facts for kids
Aisha al-Hurra, often known by her Spanish name Aixa, was an important woman in the history of the Emirate of Granada. She was married to two sultans, Muhammed XI and Abu l-Hasan Ali. She was also the mother of Muhammad XII, who was the last Muslim ruler of Granada. Aixa was called "al-Horra" by Muslims, which means "Free Woman." This was a special title because she was a descendant of the Prophet Muhammed. She was very involved in politics and helped guide the state during Granada's final years.
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Life
Aixa was born into the Nasrid dynasty, the ruling family of Granada. She was likely the daughter of Sultan Muhammed IX. Aixa owned several palaces and properties herself.
Her first marriage was to Muhammed XI. After he died in 1455, she married his successor, Abu l-Hasan Ali. This second marriage probably aimed to bring peace between different groups within the royal family. Later, Aixa was sent to another palace with her sons. This happened after her husband married another woman.
In 1482, Aixa joined forces with a group called the Abencerrages. She helped to remove her husband from power. Her son, Muhammad XII, then became the new sultan. He was also known as Boabdil.
Aixa was very active in politics during her son's rule. She is said to have protected Christians living in Granada from harm. In 1483, she helped negotiate for her son's freedom. He had been captured by the Kingdom of Castile.
Aixa was known for being extremely patriotic. She wanted to keep fighting even when Granada's army was defeated. She believed they should fight to the very end, using women, children, and old men if needed. She blamed the defeat on people in the kingdom who betrayed their country. She thought they gave up for money and property.
After Granada fell in 1492, Aixa went into exile with her son. They first went to Alpujarras. In 1493, they moved to Fes.
A famous story says that when her son, Muhammad XII, left Granada after its fall, he looked back and sighed. Aixa then told him:
- "Weep like a woman for a kingdom you could not defend like a man."
See also
In Spanish: Aixa para niños
