What were the causes behind the civil wars during the ‘Abbasid period?

The civil wars during the ‘Abbasid period were primarily caused by political instability, sectarian conflicts, and socio-economic disparities.

The ‘Abbasid period, spanning from the mid-8th to the 13th century, was marked by a series of civil wars that significantly impacted the Islamic world. One of the primary causes of these conflicts was political instability. The ‘Abbasid Caliphate, despite its initial success in unifying diverse regions under a single political entity, struggled to maintain control over its vast territories. The central authority was often challenged by regional governors and military commanders who sought to assert their independence. This resulted in frequent power struggles and rebellions, leading to a state of near-constant civil war.

Sectarian conflicts also played a significant role in the ‘Abbasid civil wars. The Islamic world during this period was deeply divided along sectarian lines, primarily between Sunni and Shia Muslims. The ‘Abbasid Caliphate, which was Sunni, faced significant opposition from Shia groups who rejected their authority. These sectarian tensions often erupted into violent conflicts, further destabilising the Caliphate. The ‘Abbasid rulers attempted to suppress these sectarian divisions through force, but this often only served to exacerbate the conflicts.

Socio-economic disparities were another major cause of the civil wars during the ‘Abbasid period. The ‘Abbasid Caliphate was characterised by a significant gap between the wealthy elite and the poor masses. The ruling class, which included the Caliph and his court, the military elite, and the religious scholars, enjoyed a life of luxury and privilege. In contrast, the majority of the population lived in poverty. This socio-economic inequality led to widespread discontent and resentment among the lower classes, which often manifested in rebellions and uprisings against the ruling elite.

In addition to these primary causes, other factors such as tribal rivalries, ethnic tensions, and foreign invasions also contributed to the civil wars during the ‘Abbasid period. These conflicts, in turn, further weakened the ‘Abbasid Caliphate, leading to its eventual decline and fall.