Abu Muslim

(d. 755) Leader of a revolutionary movement in Khor whose efforts brought down the Umayyad dynasty. Born into the (non-Arab Muslim) class and of humble origins, he met an agent of the 'Abbasid family while in prison (741). After his arranged release, he was sent to Khorasan (745–746) to instigate a revolt. Recruiting from various discontented groups, he succeeded in overthrowing the last Umayyad caliph, Marwan II (750), and was rewarded with the governorship of Khorasan. His popularity led the second 'Abbasid caliph, al-Mansur, to view him as a threat and have him put to death. See also '.

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