Hisham I of Córdoba facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hisham I Al-Redaهشام بن عبد الرحمن الداخل |
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Dirham of Hisham I of Córdoba
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| 2nd Emir of Córdoba | |
| Reign | 6 October 788 – 16 April 796 |
| Predecessor | Abd al-Rahman I |
| Successor | al-Hakam I |
| Born | April 26, 757 Córdoba |
| Died | April 16, 796 (aged 38) Córdoba |
| Issue | Al-Hakam I |
| Dynasty | Umayyad |
| Father | Abd ar-Rahman I |
| Mother | Halul |
| Religion | Islam |
Hisham I Al-Reda ibn Abd ar-Rahman was the second Emir of Córdoba. He ruled al-Andalus (parts of modern-day Spain and Portugal) from 788 to 796.
Hisham was born on April 26, 757, in Córdoba. His father was Abd al-Rahman I, the first Emir of Córdoba. His mother was Halul.
Contents
Early Challenges as Emir
When Hisham became emir in 788, he faced problems right away. His brothers, Suleiman and 'Abd Allah, started rebellions against him. Hisham had to work to bring peace and order to his new rule.
Military Campaigns and Expansion
Battles in Septimania
In 793, Hisham faced a challenge from the Christian Franks. They were moving south near the Pyrenees mountains. Hisham called for a jihad, which is a holy struggle. He sent his troops to fight in areas like Girona and Narbonne.
His general, Abd al-Malik ibn Abd al-Wahid ibn Mughith, had a big victory near Carcassonne. He defeated William of Orange, a leader for the Franks. Even though they won, the army did not go deeper into Frankish lands. Instead, they returned with a lot of treasure and many captives. This wealth helped Hisham pay for important projects.
Campaigns Against Northern Kingdoms
From 794 onwards, Hisham's generals led yearly campaigns. They targeted Christian kingdoms in the north, like Álava, Old Castile, and Asturias. They even reached Oviedo, the capital city of Asturias, and took its riches.
These expeditions were not meant to destroy the northern kingdoms. Their main goal was to gather wealth and show the military strength of Córdoba. This also helped keep local leaders and garrisons loyal.
Hisham's Character and Legacy
Hisham I died in 796 CE when he was 40 years old. He had ruled for eight years. He was known for living a simple life and avoiding fancy displays. People saw him as a religious and fair leader. He was called "the just" because of his fair decisions.
Hisham believed he would only live for eight more years. Because of this, he focused on helping others. He wore plain clothes and often walked among the people of Córdoba. He visited the sick and helped the poor with their needs. Even on rainy nights, he would bring food from his palace to those in need. He also encouraged his people to be religious.
After Hisham's death, his brother 'Abd Allah returned from exile. He claimed control of Valencia. His other brother, Suleiman, claimed Tangiers. Hisham's son, al-Hakam I, then became the next emir. Hisham left behind a strong and respected kingdom for his successor.
See also
In Spanish: Hisham I de Córdoba para niños
