The Political Gift for the Zirid and the Hammadid: forms – Context – Dimensions

Abstract

This research paper examines the relationships between states in the medieval period from the perspective of political gift-giving. We have chosen the relationship between the Zirid and Hammadid states in the Islamic Maghreb as a model. We consider that the topic of political gift-giving remains one of the overlooked aspects in the field of historical studies, despite the relative abundance of source material. Historical sources abound with texts on gift exchanges between states and rulers. We also assume that the impact of political gifts in shaping relations between states during the medieval period is significant and profound, surpassing mere diplomatic courtesies, given the size, content, distinctiveness, and longevity of these gifts. These indicators underscore the role of gifts and their contribution to shifting the nature of relationships from negative to positive on many occasions. Furthermore, we seek to elucidate the perspective on this topic by adopting a quantitative approach, to the extent permitted by the sources.