10.2 The Spread of Islam Forging a religious empire despite internal conflict.

Muhammad’s Successors  After Muhammad’s death in 632, Abu- Bakr becomes the 1 st caliph or successor/deputy to the head of Islam.  The reign of a caliph was known as a caliphate.  Example: Caliph Abu-Bakr During caliphate of Abu-Bakr, there were many uprisings that were quickly subdued (put down).

“Rightly Guided” Caliphs  Called “rightly guided” because they used the Qur’an and Muhammad’s actions as guides.  Used military force to stop rebellions within Islam and eventually use armies to spread Islam to Syria and lower Egypt  Muslims see military victories as a sign of Allah’s support of Islam.

Islam Conquers Empires  Byzantine and Persian Empires fall because of – Weakness – Religious persecution – Those persecuted welcomed invaders

Treatment of Conquered Peoples  Many people attracted by Islam’s message and accept Islam.  Qur’an forbids forced conversion so, many retain their own religions, but had to pay a poll tax so they don’t have to serve in the army.  Christians and Jews can practice, but not spread their religions.

Internal Conflict ~ Crisis  Uthman and Ali assassinated and the system of choosing a caliph is gone.  Umayyads – family that gains power of caliphs and move Muslim capital.  Unpopular: – Move capital from Mecca to Damascus - too far from Muslim homeland – Abandon simple life for life of luxury

The Sunni and the Shi’a Split  Shi’a – The party or followers of the Prophet Muhammad: – Caliph must be a relative of Muhammad  Sunni – Believe that the first four caliphs (not related to Muhammad) are rightful successors to Islam. – Caliph must follow Muhammad’s example

 Blue – Sunni  Green – Shi’a

Conflicts “Resolve”  Abbasids overthrow Umayyads in 750  Prince Abd al- Rahman escapes to Spain to help form Muslim state in Spain. – “rock” Jabal Tariq ~ Gibraltar

Conflicts “Resolve” cont...  Abbasids move capital to Baghdad.  Muslim empire flourishes  Abbasid caliphate lasts  Rival groups split Muslim lands – Fatmid Dynasty – named after Fatima (Muhammad’s daughter) – Empire breaks up as independent states gain independence

Muslim Trade  Oceans enable trade – Med & Indian  Land enables trade – Silk Roads link China and India to Europe and Africa  Muslim merchants need unity: – Language: Arabic – Currency ($): Dinar – Banks create sakks – pronounced “check”

Sunni & Shi’a: Religious SECTS

Sectarian Violence