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Explore the rapid expansion of Islam from a local religion in the Arabian desert to a major empire spanning three continents, and the subsequent division of the faith into Sunni and Shi'a branches.
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The Spread of Islam • Despite internal conflict, within 200 years Islam went from a local religion in the Arabian desert to a major empire on three continents- Europe (Spain and parts of Turkey), Africa, and Asia • Muslim empires conquered Jerusalem and Damascus (Syria) • Mecca and Medina were the 2 holiest cities of Islam • Baghdad (in Iraq) was the capital of the Islamic empires for quite a long time until it was conquered by the Mongols. • Muslim empires spread into Europe (but were defeated by Frankish troops led by Charles Martel at the Battle of Tours (in France)—so expansion ended there)
The Spread of Islam • After Muhammad’s death, Islam spread quickly out of the Arabian desert across trade routes (cultural diffusion). Spread great distances through desert environments and mountain barriers. The Arabic language helped to facilitate the spread of Islam • Islamic armies were able to expand into the Fertile Crescent, Iran and out into central Asia because the Persian and Byzantine Empires were weak and easily toppled there. • Many of these people accepted Islam. Some of them liked the message, some liked the fact that by becoming Muslim they avoided paying a tax put on non-Muslims. • The Koran prevented Muslims from forcing others to accept the religion, however. • Muslim rulers allowed people to follow whatever beliefs they chose.
Muslims Become Divided • In 632 C.E- Muhammad dies, leaving no confirmed successor • Disagreement among clans on who will lead the faith—will it be bloodline or the one most capable. • Eventually Islam splits into Sunni (those who believe Muhammad’s successor should be a capable member of the Islamic community) and Shi’a (those who believe the successor should be a relative of Muhammad) • Today there are more Sunni Muslims
