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Battle of Talas

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description Battle of Talas Overview

The Battle of Talas was a military engagement fought in July 751 AD between the Tang Dynasty of China and the Abbasid Caliphate near the Talas River in Central Asia. The Abbasid forces, aided by the defection of the Karluks from the Tang army, secured a decisive victory over the Chinese troops commanded by Gao Xianzhi. The conflict marked the end of westward Tang expansion and halted Chinese political influence in the region for centuries. Historically, it is also noted for the capture of Chinese papermakers, which facilitated the spread of papermaking technology to the Islamic world and eventually Europe.

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Who fought in the Battle of Talas and when did it happen?

The Battle of Talas was fought in 751 AD between the Arab Abbasid Caliphate and the Tang Dynasty of China. This significant military engagement took place near the border of modern-day Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.

Why was the Battle of Talas historically significant?

It was the only major military clash between the Arab and Chinese empires, effectively halting Tang Dynasty expansion into Central Asia. The defeat also led to the capture of Chinese papermakers, which helped spread papermaking technology to the Islamic world and eventually Europe.

Which commander led the Tang forces at the Battle of Talas?

The Tang Dynasty forces were led by General Gao Xianzhi, who suffered a significant defeat after his mercenary Karluk auxiliaries betrayed him mid-battle. The Abbasid forces were commanded by Ziyad ibn Salih.

How did the Battle of Talas impact the spread of technology?

According to historical accounts, captured Chinese artisans from the battle brought the secret of papermaking to Samarkand. This technological transfer revolutionized the Islamic world's record-keeping and literature production.

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