List of Maps and Illustrations
Acknowledgments
Introduction
The Turkish Soldiers of Samarra
The Samarran Turks in Modern Scholarship
The Original Sources
1. The Initial Period
The Appearance of the Guard
Al-Ma'mun: The Consolidation of Authority
Conclusion
2. The Settlement at Samarra
Al-Mu'tasim and the Departure from Baghdad
The Settlement at Samarra
3. The Samarran Political Arena
The Influence of the Turkish Leadership
The Onset of Anarchy
4. The Exercise of Authority
The Sources of Influence
The Reaction to Turkish Authority
Conclusion--A Waning Presence
Al-Muwaffaq's Hour
The Turkish Rank and File
Musa ibn Bugha and the Turkish Leadership
A Final Anecdote
Appendix A. Retainer Forces in Early Islamic History
Appendix B. Notable Families of Turkish Origin
Ibrahim ibn al-Abbas al-Suli and Family
Azjur and Family
Juff ibn Yaltekin and Family
Khaqan 'Urtuj and Family
Notes
Bibliography
Index