The political and economic effects of the war of succession in the Seljuk era

Abstract

The Seljuk family's lineage traces back to Seljuk bin Daqqaq, who is their supreme grandfather. The family emerged as one of the most prominent Islamic powers during the Abbasid era, playing a major role in reshaping the region's geopolitical landscape, and saving the Abbasid state, which had lost much of its influence in the region, particularly when the state granted legitimacy to Buyid rule.

Subsequently, the Seljuks engaged in a long conflict with the Ghaznavids, culminating in their decisive victory, where the thorn of Ghaznavids was broken. With newfound momentum, they embarked on a westward expansion, eliminating the Buyids and extending their authority to the Levant, Hijaz, and Anatolia. This expansion led to numerous wars against the Byzantines and the

Crusaders. However, the Seljuk state succumbed to division and dispersion, as a power struggle for the throne erupted among the members of Seljuk family. Adding to the chaos, the Seljuks became embroiled in a conflict with the Abbasid Caliphate, leading to the occasional abandonment of Baghdad by the Caliph and the people, and disorders in the political life, which affected all aspects of economy, as the Seljuks neglected all industries except those essential for military. Also, the trade has been damaged due to the sabotaging of trading routes and the lack of security. Agricultural production suffered as well, as lands were neglected and abandoned by their owners. This led to a decrease in agricultural output and a subsequent rise in food prices.