The History and Social Reality of the Ghuraba" Strangers "in the Central Maghreb During the Zayyanid Era) 633-962AH/1236-1555 AD(

Abstract

This study examines the socio-political and economic dynamics of foreign populations within the Central Maghreb during the Zayyanid era (633–962 AH / 1236–1554 AD), Moving beyond traditional historical narratives that treat marginalized groups as transient historical entities, this research investigates the multifaceted roles played by 'strangers' (al-ghurabā) in reshaping the social structure, bolstering commercial networks, and enriching the intellectual landscape of prominent Zayyanid urban centers, most notably Tlemcen. Utilizing a diverse array of primary Arabic sources-including jurisprudential nawāzil, biographical dictionaries, and medieval travelogues-the study analyzes how the status of these individuals fluctuated between successful social integration and cultural distinctiveness, influenced heavily by political fluctuations, regional instability, and state-sponsored containment institutional policies. Furthermore, it addresses the profound psychological implications of psychological alienation (al-ightirāb) and physical exile (al-ghurbah) endured by political refugees and displaced scholars. Ultimately, the paper provides a more nuanced understanding of the historical transformations and social structures of the Zayyanid state, highlighting the interactive relationship between newcomers and host communities, while opening fresh investigative avenues into medieval Maghrebi institutional integration mechanisms.