Tariq ibn Ziyad
(Tarik, Taric ben Zeyad)
d. 720  |
| TARIQ LAYING HIS CONQUESTS AT THE FEET OF MUSA. |
Tariq was a Berber general in service to Musa ib Nusaair, the Arab General of North Africa. He is
credited with leading the Moors to victory at the Battle of Guadalete, and following up his
victory with the swift conquest of most of the rest of Spain. His success, however,
made him subject to Musa's jealousy. For several years Tariq served as governor of the Moorish
dominions of Hispania, but he was eventually replaced by Musa's son, and called to Damascus to give account.
Although he ably defended himself against accusations by Musa, he was not restored to his
former position, but instead died at the Umayyad Court in Damascus.
Tariq gave his name to the Rock of Gibralter, known in Arabic as Gibr Tariq, or the Rock of Tariq.
Key events during the life of Tariq ibn Ziyad:
| Year |
Event |
| 710 |
Count Julian approaches Musa with an offer to surrender Ceuta for Moorish aid. |
| 711 |
Berbers, led by Tariq prevail over Visigoths at the Battle of Guadalete |
| 712 |
Appointed governor of Moorish conquests in Hispania. |
| 714 |
Recalled to Damascus due to treachery, and in-fighting among Moors. |
| 720 |
Death of Tariq. |
Other Resources
| Contemporary |
Short Biography |
| Roderic |
Last king of Visigoth Spain. Died at the Battle of Guadalete. |
| Musa bin Nusair |
Umayyad governor of North Africa who organized and directed the Moslem invasion of the Iberian peninsula. |
| Abdul Aziz |
Son of Umayyad governor Musa. Ruled in Andalusia until murdered for marrying Exilona. |
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