Quality control in the Fatimid state and the role of the Diwan of the Happy Store

Abstract

       The Fatimid state in Egypt and the Levant accomplished what no other Islamic state had accomplished in the administrative field, specifically in the field of diwans. It structured them in a perfect way, both internally and in the border areas, and was able to control the state and manage its affairs. This is what ensured that it would continue for many years, despite the disasters it was exposed to, whether floods, famines, diseases or epidemics. However, it was able, most of the time, to guarantee a decent life for its people and to put an end to the corrupt who exploited the deteriorating conditions, including merchants who rushed to monopolize materials and sell them at high prices, so that people would be above their poverty. However, the Fatimid caliphs established what was known as the Diwan of the Happy Store, in which they stored basic materials that citizens needed in their daily lives, and offered them in times of hardship at prices suitable for everyone, in order to ease the burden on their shoulders and remove the pressure and greed of merchants.

The state created a storehouse for this office in which it stored essential basic materials, especially wheat. This material was offered in the markets if it saw exploitation or monopolization by merchants, and thus it eased the burden on the citizen in times of poverty, famine and hardship. Therefore, the establishment of this office is considered a positive step to be credited to it. The Fatimid caliphs appointed employees in this office, and they managed it in an intelligent way through which they controlled the economic situation and saved the Fatimid state in times of hardship.