مظاهر الحياة الاجتماعية والاقتصادية في الأندلس في عصر الإمارة (138-316هــــ/755-928م)

Abstract

-    The Islamic conquest of Andalusia brought about a major social transformation. It saw the integration of diverse social groups, including Arabs and Berbers who entered the land as conquerors in support of Islam and to spread the word of God, in addition to the original inhabitants, the Christians, who later became known as "Muslims." After stability was established, a new element emerged within the Andalusian social fabric as a result of intermarriage between Arabs and the original inhabitants, known as "Muwalladun" (those of mixed Arab and Berber descent). Andalusian society also included a new element: the Saqaliba (Slavs), who were brought as slaves through the slave trade. They were quickly employed in military service by some Umayyad princes and played a prominent role in the historical events of the Umayyad Emirate in Andalusia. The Jews, who constituted an important part of the population of Islamic Andalusia, were known as "Ahl al-Dhimma" (People of the Covenant) alongside the Christians. As Dhimmis, they retained their faith after the Muslims granted them religious freedom, allowing them to practice their religious rites freely within churches in exchange for paying the jizya (poll tax). They thus formed a link in the transmission of civilization.  Islamic influence spread between Andalusia and the Christian kingdoms of northern Spain, as well as the rest of Europe, thanks to their mastery of the Arabic language and their contribution to translating numerous Islamic works into their languages.                                                                                                                                      
-    The social structure of these groups consisted of three main classes: first, the class of princes and their associates; second, the class of religious scholars and poets; and third, the general population, representing the majority of the country's inhabitants.                                            
-    On the other hand, this study also examines the economic aspect. Islam encouraged Muslims to pursue livelihoods alongside their religious duties. The Umayyad rulers focused on the country's economy, which contributed to remarkable achievements in agriculture, industry, and trade. This was facilitated by Andalusia's unique geographical characteristics, such as fertile soil and abundant water. This led to a great economic boom, which in turn raised the standard of living for the population. Wealth increased due to the diversification of income sources, in addition to other resources such as land tax, poll tax, tithes, zakat (alms), and spoils of war.