Hasan–Muawiya treaty

Quick Facts: Who was Hasan–Muawiya treaty?

Subject:

Hasan–Muawiya treaty

Known for:

The 661 peace treaty between Hasan ibn Ali and Mu'awiya I, ceding the Caliphate.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Hasan–Mu'awiya treaty was a political peace treaty signed in 661 between Hasan ibn Ali and Mu'awiya I (r. 661–680) to bring the First Fitna (656–661) to a close. Under this treaty, Hasan ceded the caliphate to Mu'awiya on the condition that the latter should rule in compliance with the Quran and the sunnah, a council should appoint his successor, and Hasan's supporters would receive amnesty. Upon accession, Mu'awiya publicly recanted his earlier promises, while Hasan retired from politics in Medina. Throughout his reign, Mu'awiya also prosecuted notable partisans of Hasan and his father Ali.

Career & Major Achievements

After Ali's assassination in 661, his eldest son Hasan was acknowledged caliph in Kufa. Having been at war with Ali, Syria's governor Mu'awiya (r. 661–680) did not recognize the caliphate of Hasan, and led an army into Kufa, while pressing Hasan for abdication in his letters. In response, Hasan sent a vanguard under Ubayd Allah ibn al-Abbas to Maskin to block Mu'awiya's advance until he arrived with the main army. Meanwhile, Hasan faced a mutiny in his camp, likely ignited by Mu'awiya's spies, and was severely wounded in a failed assassination attempt by the Kharijites, a faction opposed to both Ali and Mu'awiya.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

This attack demoralized Hasan's army and led to widespread desertions. Ubayd Allah and most of his troops also defected after Mu'awiya bribed him. When Hasan learned about this, he reproached the Iraqi nobles for their humanity. Mu'awiya now sent envoys to propose that Hasan abdicate in his favor to spare Muslim blood. In return, Mu'awiya was ready to designate Hasan as his successor, grant him safety, and offer him a large financial settlement.

Notable Quotes by Hasan–Muawiya treaty

“Hasan wrote that he would surrender the Muslim rule to Mu'awiya if he would comply with the Quran and sunnah, his successor would be appointed by a council (shura), the people would remain safe, and Hasan's supporters would receive amnesty.”

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Hasan–Muawiya treaty

True or False: “The treaty stipulated that Mu'awiya should immediately grant Hasan the Caliphate upon signing in 661.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): Mu'awiya publicly recanted his earlier promises of succession and authority after the treaty was signed.

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