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The battle of Poitiers (also called the battle of Tours) was a decisive
battle of world history because it stopped further intrusion of the
Muslims into the heart of Europe.
Abd-ar-Rahman, ruler of Cordoba, had invaded Aquitaine and advanced north. Charles Martel, Carolingian mayor of the palace and de facto ruler of the Frankish kingdom, had stationed his cavalry to defend the city of Tours. The Muslim attack was broken by Charles's cavalry near Poitiers (732), Abd-ar-Rahman was killed, and the Arabs withdrew. |