“The success of ‘Abbasid rule up to 850 was mainly due to political factors.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the argument that political factors were the most important reason for the success of ‘Abbasid rule up to 850. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement. Political factors may address the inclusion of the Arab Kharijites and Persian Shi‘ites, while retaining positions of power in Arab Sunni hands in Baghdad and the strength of the leadership. Other political factors may include the adoption of Sassanian regional political structures such as the Persian satrapy system and the notion of the Sultan as the Shahanshah. Non-political factors that candidates may address include the rise of the Mu‘tazila, an Islamic theological school. The Golden Age brought wealth and prestige to the dynasty and there was no powerful source of opposition at this time. Additionally, there may be reference to the role of often ethnically Persian Shi‘a Imams in preaching social stability.