1. The Spread of Islam
World Studies
April 13

2. I. Setting the Scene Muhammad died in 632
Unclear who would replace him
Abu Bakr stepped forward and became the first caliph, or successor to Muhammad.

3. II. Age of Conquests
Abu Bakr reunited Arab tribal leaders and set out on a series of military conquests.
Conquered Byzantine Empire, Persian Empire then moved on to Egypt.
711-the Arabs had moved west into Spain and pushed north into France

5. III. Reasons for Success
Arab conquests came at a time when neighbors were weak
Used bold, efficient fighting methods
The Bedouin camel and horse cavalry overwhelmed traditional armies
People were driven by common faith

7. IV. Conquered People
Allowed Christians, Jews and Zoroastrians to practice own faith and follow own laws
Non-Muslims did have to pay a special tax
Many converted to Islam because it emphasized the equality of all believers
Turkish and Mongol converts helped to spread Islam far across Asia

8. V. Sunni v. Shiite
Sunni believed that the caliph should be chosen by leaders of the Muslim community.
Shiites thought that the only true successors to the Prophet were descendents of Muhammad’s daughter and son-in-law, Fatima and Ali.
A number of battles were fought; individuals assassinated to gain power
Cemented the difference

9. The division still exists today.
Both sects believe in the same one God, look to the Quran for guidance and make the hajj.
Differences that do exist have led to sectarian violence.
90% of Muslims are Sunni.
Most Shiites live in Iran, Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen.

10. Muslims in the World Today

11. VI. Decline of the Caliphs
Seljuk Turks migrated into the Middle East ~900
By 1055 a sultan, or authority, controlled Baghdad.
Seljuks tried to keep Christian pilgrims from traveling to Jerusalem
Led to the First Crusade in 1095
Power over the city passed back and forth between Muslims and Christians for next 150 years