Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan

These pages are not merely a biography of Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan, nor a narration of his history, nor a record of his deeds. Rather - as Al-Aqqad himself says - they are an appreciation of him and a fair judgment of both historical and human truth. The rise of the Umayyad state and the end of the era of the Caliphate were not passing events, but ones that had lasting echoes and consequences. The study of Muawiya's character - as the founder of this state upon the ruins of the Caliphate - as well as the events of the turmoil during Uthman's reign and his conflict with Ali ibn Abi Talib, occupied a large space in historical writings, whether from those who detested and condemned him or those who admired and glorified him. Muawiya's success in establishing this state, which endured for many years, was not a matter of coincidence; rather, it had deep preparations, perhaps with roots stretching back before the advent of Islam. The qualities and traits that Muawiya acquired enabled him to reap what his ancestors had sown.