The Battle of Karbala in 680 AD (61 AH) was one of the most tragic and defining moments in Islamic history. While the world remembers Imam Hussain (AS) for his courage and martyrdom, many also ask: What happened to Yazid ibn Muawiya after Karbala?
This article examines Yazid’s actions following Karbala, the political unrest during his reign, and how history has assessed his legacy.
Table of Contents
Who Was Yazid ibn Muawiya?
Yazid ibn Muawiya was the second caliph of the Umayyad dynasty, succeeding his father, Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan. His rule began in 680 AD and was immediately marked by controversy due to his demand for allegiance from Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Learn more about Yazid’s rise to power: Encyclopaedia Britannica – Umayyad Dynasty
The Aftermath of the Battle of Karbala
On the 10th of Muharram, 680 AD, the massacre of Karbala occurred. Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions were brutally killed by Yazid’s forces. The tragedy spread rapidly, causing immense grief and anger across the Muslim world.
- Detailed account of Karbala: Al-Islam.org – Battle of Karbala
Yazid’s Initial Reaction
Yazid initially attempted to justify the killings as necessary for political unity. However, his stance backfired, leading to widespread condemnation from scholars, companions of the Prophet (PBUH), and the people of Medina and Mecca.
“The martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) shook the conscience of the Muslim world.”
– Islamic Historian Al-Tabari
Rebellion and Public Outrage
After Karbala, Yazid faced massive revolts:
1. Medina Uprising (Battle of al-Harrah – 683 AD)
The people of Medina revolted against Yazid’s rule. In retaliation, Yazid sent an army led by Muslim ibn Uqbah, leading to the sack of Medina and the killing of many civilians.
2. Siege of Mecca (683 AD)
Abdullah ibn Zubayr declared himself caliph in Mecca, opposing Yazid. Yazid’s forces besieged Mecca and even damaged the Kaaba using catapults. However, the siege ended abruptly with Yazid’s sudden death.
- More on the Siege of Mecca: BBC History – Early Islamic Civil Wars
Death of Yazid
Yazid died suddenly in November 683 AD (64 AH) at the age of 36–38. The exact cause is debated, but most historians agree it was due to natural causes (possibly illness).
- His death led to political chaos, and his son Muawiya II ruled for only a few months before the Umayyad dynasty faced further instability.
How History Remembers Yazid
Yazid’s legacy is overwhelmingly negative, shaped by Karbala and his brutal suppression of revolts.
1. Condemnation Across Islamic Sects
- Sunni View: Many Sunni scholars (like Ibn Kathir) acknowledge his tyranny but avoid cursing him.
- Shia View: Yazid is considered one of history’s greatest oppressors, with annual mourning of Ashura condemning his actions.
2. Rejection of His Legitimacy
Most Muslims do not recognize Yazid as a rightful caliph, associating him with injustice and oppression.
3. Academic & Historical Perspectives
Modern historians often describe Yazid’s rule as authoritarian and disastrous for the early Islamic state.
- Academic analysis of Yazid’s rule: JSTOR – Umayyad Caliphate Studies
Conclusion
Yazid ibn Muawiya’s reign was short but devastating. After Karbala, he faced widespread revolts and died just three years later. His legacy remains one of tyranny and disgrace, while Imam Hussain (AS) is remembered as a symbol of resistance against oppression.
The tragedy of Karbala ensured that truth triumphed over tyranny, and Yazid’s name is forever associated with injustice in Islamic history.