The Christian presence in North Africa under Almoravids Rule (1040–1147 CE): Coexistence or eradication?

Abstract

This paper attempts an introspection on the Christian presence in Almoravids North Africa (1040–1147 CE). It argues that, contrary to the thesis that the Almoravids mistreated the Christians in the Maghreb; the Christians in fact enjoyed a range of freedoms and privileges under the auspices of the Almoravids, strikingly different to the limited freedoms enjoyed during the prior rule of the Idrisids (788–974) of the Maghreb. The Christian presence in the Maghreb grew substantially under the Almoravids, and although a good number of them were uprooted and expelled from Andalusia, this paper argues that they were treated relatively well and received great support from the Almoravid administration. The paper offers insights into the Christian community in the Maghreb during Almoravid rule and the ways in which they were integrated into the social fabric of Almoravid society and the machinery of the Almoravids state.