Abd al-Qadir
(d. 1883 )
Algerian independence leader, Sufi mystic, and poet. Born in Algeria to a notable Moroccan family. Became involved in the Algerian independence movement after the French occupation of Algiers ( 1830 ). In 1834 assumed the title amir al-muminin (commander of the faithful). Surrendered in the wake of successive French military victories ( 1847 ). Originally a Qadiri Sufi, but joined the Naqshbandis in Damascus, where he lived in self-exile after his surrender. Known works include Kitab al-mawaqif (Book of stages), a commentary on the doctrines of Ibn al-Arabi , and a collection of mystical poems.
See also Salafi