Famous Nubians in World History
Yusuf ibn Tashfin - Conqueror of Spain
Yusuf ibn Tashfin (yOOsoof' i'bun täshfēn') ruler in the dynasty of the Almoravids was born in 1016. Ibn Tashfin was a Berber of the Lamtunah tribe. He grew up in the scorching desert plains of the Maghreb (Morht Africa), neither of royal blood nor sacred lineage but amidst a simple nomadic farmers existence.
A religious brotherhood, the ‘Murabitun’ (Muraabetuun) that emerged in his country from abroad and emphasised strict adherence to Shariah law (Islamic Constitution) and the Sunnah (Teachings of the Messenger SAW) caught his eye and he became a Muslim. Ibn Tashfin went on to lead the Berbers in conquering Morocco and Algeria, founding Marrakech in 1062. When the petty Moorish kings of Spain appealed for help against the Christians, he entered Spain and decisively defeated Alfonso VI of León and Castile in 1086.
Riding at the head of the twenty thousand-strong troop that defeated Alfonso’s army of seventy 
thousand, Ibn Tashfin was joined by the Muslim Kings of Almeria, Badajoz, Granada, and Seville. Dressed imperceptibly from his men as he was wont to do, Ibn Tashfin's appearance might have belied his experience, but Alfonso’s opponent was a Black African king with his throne in Morocco and like Alfonso VI himself, a seasoned military commander and leader. Unlike previous Islamic forces that had faced Alfonso VI previously, the vast majority of the enemy soldiers were neither Arab, Iberian nor European but actually black soldiers. In addition there was a noticeable absence of Warhorses. In fact, it was the first time the Spanish would see camels used for cavalry.
Yusuf Ibn Tashfin (Tashfeen) had crossed the Mediterranean Sea ready for combat in response to pleas from fellow Muslims in Spain. He conquered Spain and annexed all the Moorish territories of Spain except Zarogoza. When he died in 1106, his empire was inherited by his son Ali.
Last Updated on Saturday, 21 January 2012 23:53
Written by Sage