Sijilmasa: The Capital of Gold and Trade Caravans During the Reign of the Banu Midrar (140 AH – 366 AH / 757 CE – 976 CE)
الملخص
During the reign of the Banu Midrar (140–366 AH / 757–976 CE), the city of Sijilmasa witnessed significant economic development in various aspects, particularly in trade. This study focuses on the role played by the Banu Midrar in revitalizing commercial caravan routes and organizing trade networks during their rule. It also highlights their efforts to establish extensive trade relations with the Eastern Islamic world, North Africa, al-Andalus, and Sub-Saharan Africa, with gold being one of the most prominent commodities exchanged.
The researcher adopted an analytical inductive approach to examine historical events and facts and to understand the motivations behind the imposition of taxes and customs on land and maritime trade by the Banu Midrar, which contributed to elevating Sijilmasa’s global commercial status during the 2nd to 4th centuries AH (8th to 10th centuries CE).
Additionally, the researcher employed the descriptive method to trace and analyze historical developments, while also incorporating other scientific methodologies where necessary. This approach led to findings that underscore the pivotal role of the Banu Midrar Emirate in the flourishing of trade in Sijilmasa.