Dhuka al-Rumi facts for kids

Dhuka al-Rumi (died 11 August 919) was a leader from the Byzantine Empire who worked for the Abbasid Caliphate. He served as the governor of Egypt from 915 to 919.

He became governor of Egypt in 915. This happened when a powerful Abbasid general named Mu'nis al-Muzaffar wanted to make things stable in Egypt. At that time, a group called the Fatimids had invaded Egypt and taken the city of Alexandria. Dhuka was in Aleppo when he was chosen. He arrived in Egypt in late August, taking over from Takin al-Khazari.

Fighting the First Invasion

The first time the Fatimids tried to take over Egypt, they failed. This was thanks to General Mu'nis al-Muzaffar's help. However, the Fatimids soon started planning a second attack.

The Siege of Barqa

In 917, the Fatimids captured the city of Barqa after a long siege that lasted 18 months. This showed they were serious about their plans.

Local Support for the Fatimids

It seemed the Fatimids had people in Egypt who supported them. Many Egyptians had not been happy with the rule from Baghdad (the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate) since the early 800s. Dhuka al-Rumi had to take strong action against some people. These individuals were secretly communicating with the Fatimid leaders, al-Mahdi Billah and his son, al-Qa'im bi-Amr Allah.

The Second Invasion Begins

Even though Dhuka had made the defenses in Alexandria stronger after Barqa was captured, the Fatimids' new attack in July 919 surprised him.

Alexandria Falls

The governor of Alexandria was Dhuka's own son, Muzaffar. When the Fatimid forces arrived, Muzaffar fled the city with his helpers and many people. This left Alexandria open, and the Fatimids were able to take it over.

Challenges in Fustat

Dhuka tried to stop the new invasion, but he faced problems. The soldiers in Fustat (the capital of Egypt at the time) were not eager to fight. This was made worse because their pay was often delayed. Because of this, Dhuka had to rely on volunteers at first.

Securing Giza

Despite these challenges, Dhuka acted quickly to protect Giza. Giza was just across the Nile River from Fustat. He built a fort there to defend it. Soon after, a new money manager for Egypt, al-Husayn al-Madhara'i, arrived. He brought enough money to pay the regular soldiers what they were owed.

The End of Dhuka's Rule

Dhuka al-Rumi died on August 1, 919. His predecessor, Takin al-Khazari, took over as governor. Takin arrived to start his new role in January of the next year. Once again, General Mu'nis al-Muzaffar stepped in the following year. He saved Fustat and forced the Fatimids out of Egypt.

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