Takrit and Mosul

Abstract

This chapter argues that the city of Takrit benefited most from the economic development of Baghdad and southern Iraq by cultivating a widespread trading diaspora and by seeing one of its sons become the first eastern patriarch. It looks at evidence from Deir es-Surian that testified to western links and the channelling of Takrit's wealth into education and the collection of manuscripts. It also discusses how Takritian diaspora sponsored its own churches, often revering Iraqi saints and festivals. The chapter highlights the Takritians' growing assertiveness that led the community into conflict when they refused to acknowledge the metropolitan of Mosul. It provides a good example of how Mosul's earlier preeminence was challenged by the new economic and political prominence of Takrit.