Origins & Early Life

Yazid ibn Mu'awiya ibn Abi Sufyan (c. 646 – 11 November 683), commonly known as Yazid, was the second caliph of the Umayyad Caliphate, ruling from April 680 until his death in November 683. His appointment by his father Mu'awiya I (r. 661–680) was the first hereditary succession to the caliphate in Islamic history, which violated the Hasan–Mu'awiya treaty.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

His rule was marked by the killing of Islamic prophet Muhammad's grandson Husayn, and the start of the Second Fitna. During his father's caliphate, Yazid led several campaigns against the Byzantine Empire including an attack on the Byzantine capital, Constantinople. Yazid's nomination as heir apparent in 676 CE (56 AH) by Mu'awiya was opposed by several Muslim grandees from the Hejaz region, including Husayn and Abd Allah ibn al-Zubayr. The two men refused to recognize Yazid following his accession and took sanctuary in Mecca. When Husayn left for Kufa, he was killed with his small band of supporters and family members by Yazid's forces in the Battle of Karbala.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Husayn's death caused resentment in across the Islamic world, where Ibn al-Zubayr called for a consultative assembly to elect a new caliph. The people of Medina, who supported...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• Julien Offray de La Mettrie — Shared historical date (11-11 · Died) (1751): Enlightenment materialist philosopher known for 'Man a Machine'
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