A Glimpse into Fatimid Rule in North Africa and Egypt (909-1171 AD)

Abstract

Abstract:

The Fatimid Caliphate was the first Shia dynasty which ruled for two and a half centuries, from 909 to 1171 AD in North Africa and Egypt. They got their name Fatimid from Hazrat Muhammad’s (pbuh) daughter Hazrat Fatima (r.a) as they claimed to be the direct descendants of Hazrat Fatima (r.a).  The Fatimids ruled over various regions belonging to different religious backgrounds with the spirit of tolerance. Diversity, pluralism and meritocracy were the key features of their rule. Their effective governance helped in cultural and educational advancements which made the Fatimid era important and unique then and now. This study is significant because Fatimids history has been studied by scholars on the basis of results of fabricated information provided by heresiographies who were hostile towards Fatimids. Therefore, it becomes challenging to see the true correct picture. Recently Institute of Ismaili Studies London has recovered original manuscripts on large scale, which are being studied and translated. This has provided a different lens through which Fatimid history can be studied.