Taifa of Menorca facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Taifa of Menorca
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| 1228–1287 | |||||||||
| Capital | Menorca | ||||||||
| Common languages | Andalusi Arabic, Hebrew | ||||||||
| Religion | Islam, Roman Catholicism, Judaism | ||||||||
| Government | Monarchy | ||||||||
| Historical era | Middle Ages | ||||||||
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• Established
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1228 | ||||||||
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• Conquered by the Crown of Aragon
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1287 | ||||||||
| Currency | Dirham and Dinar | ||||||||
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The Taifa of Menorca was a small Islamic kingdom that existed on the island of Menorca. It was a part of Spain today. This kingdom lasted for about 60 years, from 1228 to 1287. It was ruled by a group of Arab leaders from the Banu Khazraj tribe.
The word "taifa" means a small independent kingdom. These kingdoms appeared in Spain and Portugal during the Middle Ages. This happened after the larger Islamic rule started to break apart.
Contents
What Was the Taifa of Menorca?
The Taifa of Menorca was a Muslim kingdom. It was set up in 1228. This happened after the Almohad dynasty lost control of the area. Menorca became a place ruled by its own leaders.
The island was important for trade. It was also a place where different cultures met. People spoke Andalusi Arabic and Hebrew. The main religions were Islam, Roman Catholicism, and Judaism.
Who Ruled Menorca?
The rulers of the Taifa of Menorca were called Emirs. An Emir is a type of prince or commander. They belonged to a family known as the Hakamid dynasty. This family governed the island during its time as an independent kingdom.
The Emirs of Menorca
- Abu Sa'id Utman: He was the first known ruler. He likely started ruling around 1228 or 1229. He ruled for a long time, until 1281.
- Abu 'Umar: He took over after Abu Sa'id Utman. He ruled from 1281 until 1287.
How Did the Kingdom End?
The Taifa of Menorca was a small kingdom. It was surrounded by larger Christian kingdoms. One of these was the Crown of Aragon. This was a powerful kingdom in what is now Spain.
In 1287, the Crown of Aragon attacked Menorca. They conquered the island. This brought an end to the Taifa of Menorca. The island then became part of the Crown of Aragon.
See also
In Spanish: Taifa de Menorca para niños
- List of Sunni Muslim dynasties
