In the 7th century CE, the Islamic empire was ruled by the Umayyad dynasty, which was founded by Muawiya ibn Abu Sufyan. Muawiya was a skilled politician and military leader who had managed to maintain power and stability in the empire. However, his son, Yazid, who succeeded him, was not as capable and was more interested in luxury and pleasure than in ruling the empire.

Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad and the leader of the Hashemite clan, was a strong opponent of Yazid’s rule. He believed that the caliphate should be based on merit and justice, rather than hereditary succession. When Yazid became the caliph, Imam Hussain refused to pledge allegiance to him, citing the fact that Yazid was not a suitable leader for the Muslim community.

Despite the odds, Imam Hussain remained steadfast and refused to surrender. He knew that surrender would mean submission to Yazid’s unjust rule, and he was willing to sacrifice himself and his family for the sake of Islam.

On the 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, Imam Hussain and his family were attacked by Yazid’s forces. The battle was fierce and intense, with Imam Hussain and his companions fighting bravely against overwhelming odds.