The Almohads, like the Almoravids, find their initial inspiration in Islamic reform.

Their spiritual leader, the Moroccan Muhammad ibn Abdallah ibn Tumart, seeks to reform Almoravid decadence.

Rejected in Marrakech and other cities, he turns to his Masmuda tribe in the Atlas Mountains for support.

Because of their emphasis on the unity of God, his followers are known as Al Muwahhidun (unitarians, or Almohads).

Although declaring himself mahdi, imam, and masum (infallible leader sent by God), Muhammad ibn Abdallah ibn Tumart consults with a council of ten of his oldest disciples.

Influenced by the Berber tradition of representative government, he later adds an assembly composed of fifty leaders from various tribes.

The Almohad rebellion begins in 1125 with attacks on Moroccan cities, including Sus and Marrakech.