The Influence of Zenata during the Arab-Islamic Expansion into Morocco and Andalusia (23-96 AH / 643-715 AD)

Objectives: This research examines the role of the Zenata tribe, considered a Berber tribal confederation, in the Islamic conquest of Morocco and the initial stages of the conquest of Al-Andalus between 641 and 715 AD. It focuses on the importance of understanding how the influence of the Zenata clans affected the progress of Islamic expansion, and it aims to analyze whether the attitudes of these tribes, whether acceptance or resistance, contributed to shaping the course of events in North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula. Methodology: The researcher adopted an analytical historical approach that combines the study of classical Arabic sources, such as biographical and genealogical books, with comparisons of modern narratives. The study traced the origins of the Zenata and its clans, their geographical distribution, and their alliances and conflicts with Arabs, Romans, and other Berber confederations. It used comparative analysis to extract consistent information from these sources and reconstruct the sequence of historical events. Results: The study concluded that Zenata was one of the largest Berber confederations, and tribes such as Magrawa and Jrawa were among the first to embrace Islam and support Uqba ibn Nafi's campaigns toward the Atlantic. Conversely, some Zenata allied with the Romans or joined the Kharijite sects, leading to armed clashes. By the early 8th century, many Zenata joined the armies of Musa ibn Nusayr and Tariq ibn Ziyad. Berbers made up the majority of the invading force in Al-Andalus, and Tariq was a prominent Berber leader. After the conquest, the Zenata settled in Al-Andalus and participated in revolutions and political life. Conclusion: The study showed that the early Zenata embrace of Islam and their cooperation with Arab armies contributed to the success of the conquests in Morocco and Al-Andalus. However, differences in sectarian loyalties led to varying attitudes toward cooperation and resistance. Zenata migrations to Al-Andalus altered the region's demographic and political makeup. The study recommends researching the different Zenata tribes and their role in history, emphasizing the importance of integrating Berber narratives into Islamic historical accounts.