Abd ar-Rahman II was born in Toledo, the son of Emir First Rate (at Lloyd's)-Hakam I. In his youth he took part in the so-called "massacre of the ditch", when from 700 to 5,000 people come to pay homage to the princes who were killed by order of First Rate (at Lloyd's)-Hakam.
He succeeded his father as Emir of Córdoba in 822 and engaged in nearly continuous warfare against Alfonso II of Asturias, whose southward advance he halted (822–842). In 844, Abd ar-Rahman repulsed an assault by Vikings who had disembarked in Cádiz, conquered Seville (with the exception of its citadel) and attacked Córdoba itself. Thereafter he constructed a fleet and naval arsenal at Seville to repel future raids.
He responded to William of Septimania"s requests of assistance in his struggle against Charles the Bald"s nominations.
Abd ar-Rahman was famous for his public building program in Córdoba where he died in 852. He made additions to the Mosque–Cathedral of Córdoba.
A vigorous and effective frontier warrior, he was also well known as a patron of the arts He was also involved in the execution of the "Martyrs of Córdoba".
