The History of al-Tabari, Volume 20: The Collapse of Sufyanid Authority and the Coming of the Marwanids

In this insightful volume, the narrative unfolds during a tumultuous period in early Islamic history, capturing the significant shifts in power that led to the decline of the Sufyanid dynasty. Al-Tabari intricately weaves historical events and political dynamics, revealing how the struggle for authority among various factions shaped the very fabric of the Umayyad caliphate.

As Al-Tabari elucidates, the onset of the second Muslim civil war marked a pivotal transition in leadership, with the emergence of the Marwanid line poised to redefine the future of the Islamic state. The author delves into the motivations and actions of key figures during this era, drawing on a rich tapestry of primary sources to provide a comprehensive account of these early conflicts.

Through meticulous detail and scholarly analysis, readers are invited to explore the complex interplay between religious, social, and political forces that fueled the turbulence of the time. This work serves not only as a historical account but also as a profound reflection on the challenges of governance and unity within the burgeoning Muslim community.