Chapter XVII: Wars with the Christians; the Almoravides

Dissensions in Castile--Alfonso the Guest of the Emir of
Toledo--Civilization of that Moorish Capital--Motamid,
Prince of Seville--His Prodigality--Valencia and Murcia
become subject to Mamun--Motamid takes Cordova--Military
Genius of Alfonso VI.--The Famous Game of Chess--Siege of
Toledo--Capitulation of that City--Depredations of Bands
of Outlaws--Danger and Distress of the Moslems--Rise
of the Almoravides--Their Fanaticism and Prowess--They
conquer Northern Africa--The Spanish Emirs appeal to
Yusuf--He crosses the Strait--Rout of the Christians at
Zallaca--Second Expedition of Yusuf--His Popularity--He
claims the Sovereignty of the Peninsula--The Cid: His
Character and His Exploits--He serves the Emir of
Saragossa--He obtains Control of Valencia--Revolt and
Siege of that City--Cruelties of the Cid--Death of
Yusuf--Greatness of the Almoravide Empire--Accession of
Ali--Demoralization of the Conquerors 159