Abu Yazid

Abu Yazid (Abuyazidu) (d. 947) Berber (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia) The historical figure on whom the mythical hero bayajida may have been based. Abu Yazid was a leader of the Zanata tribe, one of the most important Berber tribes in North Africa. He adopted the Kharajide faith, converted his tribe to it, and spread the religion across North Africa. This brought him in conflict with the Fatimid caliphs who ruled North Africa. During the time of the second Fatimid caliph, Imam al-Qaim (ruled 933–945), Abu Yazid conquered many important towns. Imam al-Qaim sought refuge in the city of Mehdiya in Morocco, to which Abu Yazid laid siege in 945. Abu Yazid’s siege was unsuccessful, but al-Qaim died during it. The imam was succeeded by his son, al-Mansur, Abu Yazid  The tomb of Abu Yazid, the historical figure on whom the mythical hero Bayajida may have been based, in Shahrood, Iran (Photo by Babak Gholizadeh) who continued trying to quell Abu Yazid’s revolt. Abu Yazid withdrew to Susa, which al-Mansur then attacked. Abu Yazid was driven off to Morocco. He continued his revolt until he was finally defeated at Fort Kutama. Seriously wounded during the battle, he died soon afterward. Despite their enmity, al-Mansur respected Abu Yazid for his bravery. After Abu Yazid’s death, al-Mansur took care of all of his family.

Taken from African Mythology A to Z – Library Binding – May 1, 2010- Second Edition – Written by Patricia Ann Lynch (Author), Jeremy Roberts Dr (Editor) – Copyright © 2004, 2010 by Patricia Ann Lynch