The Umayyad Ascendancy in Iberia: From Damascus to Córdoba

In the turbulent wake of the Abbasid Revolution, when the mighty Umayyad dynasty was nearly extinguished, one man defied fate—and history. Abd al-Rahman I, the sole surviving Umayyad prince, embarks on an extraordinary journey from the deserts of the Middle East through the volatile lands of North Africa, to the wild frontiers of Iberia. There, amidst fierce tribal rivalries, religious complexities, and fractured kingdoms, he carves out a new empire: the Emirate of Córdoba. This sweeping narrative unveils the dramatic rise of the Umayyads in al-Andalus, exploring the forging of a distinct Andalusi identity shaped by diverse cultures, faiths, and traditions. It reveals how Abd al-Rahman's astute diplomacy, military genius, and visionary governance transformed a fragmented territory into a thriving political and cultural powerhouse. From the construction of Córdoba's iconic mosque to the bustling trade routes connecting East and West, the story captures a world at the crossroads of civilizations. With vivid detail and scholarly depth, The Umayyad Ascendancy: From Damascus to Córdoba illuminates a pivotal chapter of medieval history—one of exile, resilience, and reinvention. Perfect for lovers of historical epics and readers eager to uncover the rich tapestry behind one of Islam's most remarkable empires, this book brings to life the man and the moment that changed the course of the Mediterranean and left a legacy of enduring influence.