Idris al-Wathiq facts for kids

Abu Idris al-Wathiq (also known as Abu Dabbus) was an important ruler in history. He was the very last Almohad caliph. A caliph was like a supreme leader or king in the Islamic world. Idris al-Wathiq ruled in the city of Marrakesh from 1266 until he died in 1269. His time as ruler marked the end of the Almohad Caliphate.

The End of the Almohad Rule

Idris al-Wathiq became the Almohad caliph in 1266. Before this, the city of Marrakech was under attack. The Marinid sultan, named Abu Yusuf Yaqub ibn Abd Al-Haqq, had tried to take the city. He was not successful at first.

How Idris Became Caliph

Idris al-Wathiq saw a chance to take power during this confusing time. He removed his cousin, Abu Hafs Umar al-Murtada, from power. Idris did this with help from the Marinid sultan, Abu Yusuf. After taking control, Idris declared himself the Almohad caliph. However, his power was very limited. He mostly controlled only the city of Marrakesh itself.

The Final Siege

Soon, the Marinid ruler changed his mind about supporting Idris. This led to a new attack on Marrakesh. The Zayyanid ruler, Yaghmurasen Ibn Zyan, joined forces with the Marinids. They began to besiege Marrakesh. A siege is when an army surrounds a city to cut off supplies and force it to surrender. This siege lasted a long time, from 1268 until September 1269.

The Fall of Marrakesh

In September 1269, the city of Marrakesh finally fell to the combined Marinid and Zayyanid armies. Idris al-Wathiq was captured by these forces. Sadly, he was executed. His death was a very important moment in history. It marked the official end of the Almohad Caliphate, which had been a powerful empire for many years.

See also

In Spanish: Abu Dabús para niños