2002 DBQ Using the documents, compare and contrast the attitudes of Christianity and Islam toward merchants and trade from the religions’ origins until about 1500. Are there indications of change over time in either case, or both?

Thesis/Intro From the religions’ origins until about 1500 the attitudes of Christians and Muslims towards trade differed. In the beginning (starting with 32 CE) Christians viewed trade negatively, while Muslims (starting in 622 CE) viewed trade positively. Later on Christians’ views toward trade became more positive. Later on Muslims’ views toward trade became more negative.

1st Body Paragraph It can be seen from documents 1 and 2 that from its founding Christians viewed trade in a negative manner, while Muslims viewed trade in a positive manner. (Gist) According to document 1, which is a quote from the Bible, it is difficult for a rich man to enter heaven. (GIST) According to document 2, which is a quote from Muhammad (the Qur’an), an honest trader is viewed in a positive manner to the extent that Muhammad states a Muslim merchant will rank with the martyrs.

1st Body Paragraph (Cont.) – POV Analysis (CORNPEG) Muhammad as a merchant would certainly be likely to view merchants in a positive manner. He (believed he) behaved in a moral way, therefore he would likely assume other traders would do the same.

1st Body Paragraph (Cont.) – Missing Voice Request An additional document that would help to understand these views would be a quote from an early, wealthy Christian and a quote from an early wealthy Muslim to see if they agreed and followed these views from their founders.