Overview of the Battle of Tours
The Battle of Tours, also known as the Battle of Poitiers, took place in an area called Poitiers, located near the Loire River in the southern region of France. The governor, Abdul Rahman Al-Ghafiki, who had been appointed to govern Al-Andalus in the year 112 AH by the Umayyad Caliph Hisham ibn Abd al-Malik, called for the opening of the territories known today as France. Many Arabs from Yemen and the Levant, along with a significant number of Berbers, responded to his call and gathered under his command.
The Islamic army advanced into several regions, achieving multiple victories, including in Aquitaine, Bordeaux, and Burgundy. They also successfully crossed the Pyrenees mountains. Upon Abdul Rahman Al-Ghafiki’s entry into the Poitiers region, he faced Prince Charles Martel and his large army, leading to a fierce battle. This conflict resulted in the martyrdom of Abdul Rahman Al-Ghafiki along with numerous Muslim soldiers. It is worth noting that the Battle of Tours is considered one of the most significant and formidable battles in French history.
The Battle of Tours is also referred to as the Battle of Poitiers or simply as the Battle of the Plain (Baylatus al-Shuhada), due to its occurrence in the vicinity of the castle. The term “plato” refers to a fortified place or palace, hence its naming as the Battle of the Plain of Martyrs.
This battle lasted for a duration of eight days and was one of the most perilous conflicts faced by the Muslims. During this time, they adhered to patience, but the control largely rested with the Christians, Germans, and Franks, who attacked the spoils of war amassed by the Muslims. This undermined the strength and morale of the Muslims, ultimately leading to the martyrdom of Abdul Rahman Al-Ghafiki when he attempted to restore security. Consequently, the Muslim forces retreated, leaving their spoils behind.
Reasons for the Muslims’ Defeat in the Battle of Tours
The following are the primary reasons attributed to the defeat of the Muslims in the Battle of Tours:
- Significant discord and conflict between Muslims and Berbers, resulting in challenges that led to a considerable defeat.
- The Muslim forces were preoccupied with their previous war spoils, which they feared losing. This concern caused a delay in their movements, allowing the enemy to exploit this by encircling the rear of the Islamic army.
- The unification of the Christian army in France, comprising forces from various regions that fought valiantly. They possessed a thorough knowledge of the terrain and geography, which enhanced their strategic advantage.
- The considerable distance the Muslim army was from their homeland and supply lines, exceeding 400 kilometers, posed significant logistical challenges. In contrast, the enemy’s supply lines were much closer.
- The horses of the Muslim cavalry struggled to withstand the harsh climatic conditions, impacting their effectiveness in battle.
The Significance of the Battle of Tours
Despite the defeat faced by the Muslims at the Battle of Tours, this conflict was a pivotal moment that contributed significantly to the spread of Islam in Western territories, especially in France. Following the battle, numerous Islamic expeditions continued, particularly in the southern regions of France under the command of leaders such as Uqba ibn Nafi al-Sululi and, previously, Governor Abdul Malik ibn Qutn al-Fihri. The Battle of Tours remains one of the most crucial and impactful battles in Islamic history.