Rise Of Islam Essay

The rise of the Islamic Empire from the sixth to the thirteenth century was influenced greatly by various factors and peoples. Throughout these centuries, the Islamic Empire essentially formed and progressed through defeating neighboring empires and extending their trade routes. The rapid expansion of the empire simply allowed for the influence of others with their culture and religion, creating a large and successful Muslim society. Without the leadership of those earlier peoples, the Islamic Empire possibly never would have grown as imperially and impacted those such as the Persian Empire. Through the empire’s influential leaders, beliefs, and extensive power and trade, Islam branched into a multi-ethnic society. Beginning in the sixth
This empire, identified as the Umayyad Empire, was first ruled by Mu’awiya, the governor of Syria. Unlike the Rightly Guided Caliphs who were followers of Muhammad, such as Ali, the caliphs of the Umayyad Empire were strictly hereditary. Although, “their authority still limited… by the idea that they should consult with other leaders.” The Umayyad Empire “would transform the Islamic community from an Arab shaykhdom into an Islamic empire,” by conquering other territories and defeating forces. During the times of the eight century, the empire seized numerous territories, such as islands in the Mediterranean, Mesopotamia, Persia, and Central Asia. Although, the Umayyad Empire’s success in expansion would not be enough to save it from destruction. One factor ultimately contributed to the collapse of the empire by 750. “Factional disputes continued to plague the empire,” between the Shi’ites, supporters of Ali’s second son, Hussein, and the Sunni Muslims. The non-Arab Muslims began to notice an exceptional favoritism towards the Arab Muslims, creating great resentment of the special treatments given to the “true” Muslims. This resentment would not last as the Umayyad Empire collapsed as an uprising, led by Abu al-Abbas, a relative of Muhammad,