Muhammad IX of Granada facts for kids

Muhammad IX (Arabic: محمد التاسع, 1396–1454) was an important ruler of the Emirate of Granada. This was a Muslim kingdom located in what is now southern Spain. He was also known by his nicknames Al-Aysar and El Zurdo, which both mean "The Left-Handed" in Arabic and Castilian. Muhammad IX was the fifteenth ruler from the Nasrid dynasty. He ruled Granada four different times during a period of change and conflict. He was likely the father of Aixa, a famous queen.

Granada's Battles and Raids

Muhammad IX became the Sultan of Granada in 1448 for his fourth and final time. He continued the policies of the previous sultan, Muhammad X. These policies involved fighting against the Kingdom of Castile, a Christian kingdom in Spain.

Taking Back Frontier Towns

Muhammad IX's goal was to take back towns that had been lost to Castile. His army often raided Castilian lands, especially in the Kingdom of Murcia. The rulers of Murcia, the House of Fajardo, were busy with their own problems. This gave Granada an advantage.

In 1448, Granada had two big successes. They captured the town of Cieza. Soon after, they won a celebrated victory at the Battle of Hellín. These wins brought back land and goods to Granada.

Refusing a Truce

The constant raids by Granada made the Castilian king, John II of Castile, ask for a truce in 1450. A truce is a temporary stop to fighting. King John II wanted to focus his army on a different conflict against Juan Pacheco, the Marquis of Villena.

Muhammad IX refused the truce. He wanted to take full advantage of the disagreements among the Castilian nobles. He saw their disunity as a chance for Granada to gain more power.

Battle of La Higueruela (1431) between John II of Castile and Muhammad IX, Nasrid Sultan of Granada

Raids for Riches

In 1451, the Granadan Sultan launched another raid into the Kingdom of Murcia. This raid brought a lot of valuable goods and money back to Granada.

Between 1451 and 1452, Muhammad IX planned a very large raid, called an Algara. This raid targeted the area of Campo de Cartagena. During this attack, Granada's forces captured about 40,000 cattle and around 40 prisoners, who were mostly shepherds.

The Battle of Los Alporchones

These raids eventually led to a major battle in 1452. It was called the Battle of Los Alporchones and took place near the city of Lorca.

The battle ended in a defeat for Granada. After this loss, a truce was finally agreed upon. This truce brought an end to the border fights between the kingdoms for some time. Muhammad IX passed away in 1454.

See also

In Spanish: Muhammed IX de Granada para niños