Almanzor vs Choe U

Almanzor was appointed as hajib (chamberlain) to the young Caliph Hisham II, effectively becoming the de facto ruler of the Caliphate of Cordoba. This marked the beginning of his rise to power and his control over the state.

Almanzor launched a series of 57 military campaigns against the Christian kingdoms of northern Iberia. These raids, conducted annually, devastated Christian territories and brought wealth and slaves to Cordoba, but also drained the caliphate's resources.

Almanzor's forces sacked Santiago de Compostela, a major Christian pilgrimage site in Galicia. The cathedral was destroyed, and the bells were taken to Cordoba. This act demonstrated the reach of his military power and humiliated the Christian kingdoms.

Almanzor ordered the destruction of parts of the library of Cordoba, burning books deemed heretical or unnecessary. This act, though controversial, was part of his efforts to consolidate religious orthodoxy and eliminate opposition.

Almanzor died in Medinaceli after returning from a campaign. His death led to a power vacuum and the eventual collapse of the Caliphate of Cordoba, as his successors were unable to maintain his authoritarian control.

Choe U succeeded his father Choe Chung-heon as head of the military regime, maintaining control over Goryeo through puppet kings. He continued the family's authoritarian rule, suppressing any opposition.

Choe U refused Mongol demands for submission and tribute, leading to a series of Mongol invasions. His defiance prolonged the war but ultimately resulted in devastating campaigns against Goryeo.

Choe U moved the Goryeo court to Ganghwa Island to escape Mongol attacks, using the island's natural defenses. This allowed the regime to continue resistance but left the mainland vulnerable to Mongol raids.

Choe U died, and his son Choe Hang succeeded him. However, internal divisions weakened the regime, leading to its eventual collapse in 1258 and the restoration of royal authority under Mongol influence.