Islamic Civilization Chapter 6, Section 3

Prosperity in the Islamic World The Role of Cities Baghdad (The City of Peace) Abbasids Cairo, Egypt Fatimids Damascus, Syria Palaces, mosques Bazaar Food and goods sold Cleanliness-food inspectors and rules

Prosperity in the Islamic World The Importance of Farming Mostly by independent peasants Some land owned by the state or court Worked by slaves

Islamic Society Social Structure According to Islam, all are equal An upper class existed Ruling families Senior officials Nomadic elites The wealthiest merchants Slaves-not considered equal According to law, should be treated fairly A good thing to free them

Islamic Society The Role of Women Equal Me could have up to 4 wives if could pay the dowries After Islam spread, Some women secluded-could only leave house for 3 reasons: When conducted to the house of her bridegroom Leave house for the funeral of her parents Her own grave Cover virtually all parts of her body