The Battle of Sagrajas: Alfonso VI of Castile and Leon vs Yusuf Ibn Tashfin of the Almoravids

The video covers the historical context and events leading to the Battle of Sagrajas in 1086, where Alfonso VI of Castile and Leon faced Yusuf Ibn Tashfin's Almoravid forces. Despite initial confidence, Alfonso's forces were defeated due to strategic Almoravid tactics. The battle marked a significant shift in power dynamics on the Iberian Peninsula, delaying the Christian Reconquista and leading to Almoravid dominance in the south. The video also explores the broader implications of these events on the region's history.

What strategic disadvantage did Yusuf Ibn Tashfin's army face during the initial encounter with Alfonso VI?

• They were outnumbered by Alfonso's forces.

• They had their backs to the river Guadiana.

• They were caught in a surprise attack.

• They were low on supplies.

Which event marked the beginning of Alfonso VI's territorial expansion?

• The capture of Toledo

• The siege of Thamora

• The division of Galicia

• The death of King Ferdinand I

What was the primary reason the Taifas sought help from Yusuf Ibn Tashfin?

• To gain more wealth

• To resist Christian reconquest

• To expand their territories

• To form a new alliance

What was a unique cultural practice of the Almoravids mentioned in the text?

• Using crossbows

• Wearing metal armor

• Building large fortresses

• Veiling men with a lethem

What was a key tactic used by Yusuf's forces during the Battle of Sagrajas?

• Ambush from the rear

• Use of siege weapons

• Phalanx-like formations with javelins

• Heavy cavalry charges

What was the outcome of the Battle of Sagrajas for Alfonso VI?

• He was captured by the Almoravids.

• He formed an alliance with Yusuf.

• He was forced to retreat with heavy losses.

• He captured new territories.

What was the primary composition of Alfonso's cavalry during the Battle of Sagrajas?

• Infantry with swords

• Heavy cavalry with lances

• Light cavalry with bows

• Archers with crossbows

How did the Almoravids consolidate their power after the Battle of Sagrajas?

• By annexing the Taifas into their realm

• By forming alliances with Christian kingdoms

• By negotiating peace with Alfonso

• By retreating to North Africa

What was the significance of the Burgundians' arrival in Iberia after the Battle of Sagrajas?

• They defeated the Almoravids.

• They successfully captured Toledo.

• They initiated a proto-crusade.

• They formed a new kingdom.

What was the long-term impact of Yusuf Ibn Tashfin's actions on the Iberian Peninsula?

• Immediate reconquest by Christians

• Three decades of stalemate

• Complete Almoravid control

• Rapid Christian expansion