This study of the political history of Muslim Spain and Portugal is based on Arab sources. It provides comprehensive coverage of events across the whole of the region from 711 to the fall of Granada in 1492. The history of this region has largely been written from Christian sources and seen in terms of the Christian reconquest. Yet, this was the only long-lasting Muslim state in Western Europe and the sophistication of its main centres far exceded most of what contemporary Christendom could offer. This book aims to redress the balance and and raise the profile of this important area.