Fun Fact: Most of native Iberian Muslims were of Ibero-Roman, Gothic, Basque and Saqaliba (imported slaves of Slavic and Norse) ethno-linguistic origin.
Yes, the Muslims of Spain were not, by and large, outsiders but were largely native European converts. If you look at the hundreds of pictures in the "Cantigas de Santa Maria", the only thing that distinguishes Muslims and Christians were their dress. The Muslims are pale and often blond or red hair (Abdul Rahman III of Cordoba was pale and red hair, so much so he dyed his beard black to appear more Arab). Genetic studies of Islamic cemeteries show Iberian ancestry at 80%+, with Berber ancestry at 10-15%. There is no evidence of mass migration or displacement. Yet many documentaries or shows like "Vikings" either show the muslims to be Arab or even Black African, denying indigenous history (and implying 3-5 million sub-Saharan Africans somehow crossed the strait, killed the native Iberians and dominated the peninsula). It was not a "colony" per se but a largely native culture and system that adopted the religion and language of the former conquerors.
I think we need more mentioning in videos on this subject of those that were pointed out as having collaborated with the Muslims and opened the gates of Toledo for them.
Largest city in Spain have Arabic name (Madrid), but largest city in Morocco have Spanish name (Casablanca). Two completely different worlds, only 35 minutes by ferry far from each other.
I’m a first generation American Portuguese. My grandparents and parents on both sides were born in Portugal! This is happening again in real life today as we speak and it’s horrible to see. You should do a video about The Reconquista! There will be another one if European’s don’t wake up & unify to keep Iberia Portuguese & Spanish Christian’s.
What Happened with the Muslims of Iberia? : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHXuCbGlOAM&
♦If you like Historical Maps, take a look here: knowledgia.co/
High-resolution digital and framed maps inspired by the stories on this channel.
We use cookies, device fingerprinting and cross-device tracking to personalise content, serve targeted advertising, and analyse how you use our site across your devices. By clicking Accept all you consent to the use of these tracking technologies. Your data may be used to build a profile of your interests and show you personalised ads on other sites.
Privacy policy
Comments (20)
Daily Junction discussion mixed with clearly attributed comments from the original video provider.
Join in — free. Comments on Daily Junction are for members, so real names stay rare and bots stay out.
One field. We email you a 6-digit code — no password needed. Your comment is kept while you do it.
Under 13? You’ll need a parent’s OK first — it takes them one click.
About to teach Reconquista to gr8 :)
♦If you like Historical Maps, take a look here: knowledgia.co/
High-resolution digital and framed maps inspired by the stories on this channel.