Zirid dynasty

The Zirids (Arabic: زيريون‎ Zīryūn), a Sanhadja Berber dynasty, governed Ifriqiya (in northern Africa) from 973 to 1148.

Initially governing on behalf of the Fatimids, the Zirids became independent in 1048. An invasion by the Banu Hilal tribes in the second half of the 11th century weakened their control, and Sicilian Normans finally took over their rule in 1148.

The Hammadids of Central Maghreb and the Zawids of Granada constituted offshoots of this dynasty.

History

The Zirids were Sanhaja Berbers originating from the area of modern Algeria. In the 10th century this tribe served as vassals of the Fatimids, defeating the Kharijite rebellion of Abu Yazid (943-947), under Ziri ibn Manad (935-971). Ziri was installed as the governor of central Maghreb and founded the gubernatorial residence of Ashir south-east of Algiers, with Fatimid support.

When the Fatimids moved their base to Egypt in 972, Ziri's son Buluggin ibn Ziri (971-984) was appointed viceroy of Ifriqiya. The removal of the fleet to Egypt made the retention of Kalbid Sicily impossible, while Algeria broke away under the governorship of Hammad ibn Buluggin, Buluggin's son.