Abdalrahman founded the throne of Cordova in 756, a dynasty that ruled 250 years from the atlantic to the pyrenees. nowadays historians call him governor of spain. he lived in complete luxury and retained absolute authority. he had hundreds of wives and concubines. his palace was decked out by the finest artists, was encrusted with gold, held exotic birds and animals, and a fountain that gushed with mercury.
on his deathbed he wrote the following:
I have now reigned above fifty years in victory or peace; beloved by my subjects, dreaded by my enemies, and respected by my allies. Riches and honours, power and pleasure, have waited on my call, nor does any earthly blessing appear to have been wanting to my felicity. In this situation I have diligently numbered the days of pure and genuine happiness which have fallen to my lot: they amount to FOURTEEN: — O man! place not thy confidence in this present world!
yes, still reading gibbon. on vol.6 of 7.
