MCQ Detailed View

Abū Isḥāq Muḥammad ibn Hārūn al-Rashīd, better known by his regnal title Muʿtaṣim bi’llāh, was the eighth Abbasid Caliph. His reign lasted from 833 CE to 842 CE, following the death of his brother Caliph al-Ma’mun.

Muʿtaṣim bi’llāh was the son of the renowned Abbasid Caliph Harun al-Rashid. His caliphate is particularly remembered for the expansion of military strength, especially through the recruitment of Turkish soldiers, who later became influential in the political affairs of the caliphate. One of his major achievements was the founding of the city of Samarra in Iraq, which served as the Abbasid capital for several decades.

During his rule, Muʿtaṣim bi’llāh led successful campaigns against the Byzantine Empire, most notably the Battle of Amorium (838 CE), a significant Abbasid military victory. However, his reliance on Turkish troops also marked the beginning of political shifts that would later challenge Abbasid authority.

Despite internal challenges, his reign is considered important in shaping Abbasid military and administrative policies. He passed away in 842 CE, and his son al-Wathiq succeeded him.

Key Facts:

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  Full name: Abū Isḥāq Muḥammad ibn Hārūn al-Rashīd.

  
  


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  Regnal title: Muʿtaṣim bi’llāh (“He who seeks refuge in Allah”).

  
  


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  Reign period: 833–842 CE.

  
  


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  He was the eighth Abbasid Caliph.

  
  


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  Founded Samarra as the Abbasid capital.

  
  


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  Famous for the Battle of Amorium (838 CE) against Byzantines.

  
  


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  Son of Harun al-Rashid, brother of al-Ma’mun.