Islamic Civilization: The Caliphates and Expansion Unit 3

Agenda 1. Bell Ringer: 2. Lecture: Islamic Civilization 3. Bias within Documents: The Seige of Jerusalem. 4. Map Interpretation: Twelfth Century vs. Today. 5. Discussion and Timeline: The Role of Jerusalem within Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. HW: Work on Focus Questions,

The rise of the Caliphate Abbasid Caliphs brought economic and social change to Islam. Capital City of Baghdad constructed, allows Persian influence. Trading post for the world. Prosperity leads to corruption and immorality. Seljuk Turks, originally hired as mercenaries take control over Abbasid Caliphate in 1055 AD.

The Seljuk Turks They did not establish headquarters in Baghdad, since it was falling into ruin from corruption and riots. Attempt to attack Constantinople would lead to the Crusades against the Muslim population. Tensions rise between Christians and Muslims.

The Crusades and the Controversy Alexius I of Constantinople claimed Muslim invaders were desecrating shrines and killing Christians. In reality, Muslims were not doing that at all. Saladin’s army would destroy Christian forces concentrated in Jerusalem in Tolerated the Christian presence and did not allow a massacre of Christian population. Distrust would result from this between the two religions.

Islamic Civilization There is no rigid division between Church and State. Islamic Doctrine is consulted to determine questions of politics, economic behavior, civil and criminal law, and social ethics. Class system did exist; however, rulers were not hereditary, and merchants were held in high regard.

Society in Islam With a large class system, slavery was also utilized. Sub-Saharan African population. Qur’an requires women to be treated with respect. However, polygamy is practiced. Women are restricted to their homes and prohibited from male contacts outside of the family.

Map Activity In two minutes, draw the seven continents on a blank piece of paper. Only use your memory. After drawing it out, place an X on the most accurate portions (in your opinion) Why do you believe these to be the most accurate? What factors guided you towards this interpretation?

Islamic Map 12 th Century.

The World? AD 1500