The History of Al-Tabari, Volume 36: The Revolt of the Zanj

This volume of Al-Tabari's extensive historical account delves into a crucial period marked by the Zanj revolt, a significant uprising in 9th-century southern Iraq. Spanning the years 255 to 265 in the Islamic calendar, the narrative explores the social and economic tensions that fueled the revolt among the Zanj, an enslaved population working on the sugar plantations. With meticulous details, it captures not only the events of the revolt but also the broader implications for the Abbasid Caliphate.

The authors present a rich tapestry of insights, melding Al-Tabari's original accounts with modern interpretations. This work is invaluable for those keen on understanding the complexities of resistance movements and the societal structures of early Islamic civilization. It offers a compelling look at a tumultuous chapter in history that reflects on themes of rebellion, identity, and the quest for freedom.