The collapse of the Almohad Caliphate in the 13th century fractured Iberia and the Maghreb into a multitude of warring states. This period of chaos was a perfect opportunity for the Christian Kingdoms to wage their war of 'Reconquista', resulting in the annexation of all the Muslim states of Iberia with the sole exception of the Emirate of Granada.

The Hasfid dynasty that rules Tunis were once governors in the service of the Almohads. When the Caliphate collapsed they continued to rule in Tunis and have even awarded themselves the title of Caliph, through the Muslim world at large pays little heed to this bold claim. Of the three large kingdoms on the coast, Tunis is the least beset by internal struggle and is relatively free to make incursions on the surrounding states.

Our lands might not be as fertile as the Europeans, but our people are proud and populous. We produce high quality trade goods that they want to buy. Exotic goods from India and China can be found in our markets. It might take longer for us to develop and built up our nation, but the reward will be great, our lands are prosperous and our people loyal. Our holy city of Kairouan is a center of knowledge. Patience.