Abdulmalik’s adept handling of the second fitna revealed him to be a shrewd mover and shaker with a disposition suitable for leadership. He did more than emulate those who came before him, he enacted changes that pushed the caliphate further into statehood and away from its roots as a tribal confederacy, cementing his family’s supremacy in the process.
Aug 2025
Ubaydullah ibn Abbas (ra): The Rich Little Brother
<p>He wasn’t a scholar like his brother, but he found his own way to serve.<br/><br/>While Abdullah ibn Abbas (ra) became one of the greatest scholars of Islam, his younger brother Ubaydullah (ra) chose a different path: business, generosity, and support.<br/><br/>In this episode ... Show More
21m 33s
May 2024
Episode 295 - The Forgotten Siege
While Epirus was rising and falling, Nicaea was consolidating. John Vatatzes, the new Emperor, was competent at home and abroad. After years of consolidation he decided to besiege Constantinople. But he didn't act alone he invited an unlikely ally to join him.Period: 1215-37 Host ... Show More
27m 26s
Nov 2023
Saddam Hussein Part 2: Enforcer, Frontman, Mafia Godfather
Saddam consolidates his own power base, appointing friends and relatives to key positions. We hear a remarkable account from a woman whose own family was targeted by his secret police. Soon, the deputy will be in pole position to move against his mentor. And after that, Saddam wi ... Show More
48m 55s