“While there was significant political development during the first century of ‘Abbasid rule, there was little economic development.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that there was little economic development compared to political development during the first century of ‘Abbasid rule. Candidates may offer equal coverage of political development and economic development, or they may prioritize their assessment of one. However, both aspects will be a feature of the response. Candidates may refer to the impact of the move of the capital city from Damascus to Baghdad, the appointment of al-Mansur’s family members to administrative positions, the role played by the Caliphs, the tax system, and the impact on trade among other factors. While other relevant factors, for example social development, may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.