1. History of Islam

2. Where did it develop? Arabian Peninsula
Crossroads of Africa, Europe, and Asia
Mecca (several trade routes intersected here)
This is where Muhammad is born
Home to 2 polytheistic cults

3. The Prophet Muhammad
Believed by Muslims to be the last in a long line of prophets including Moses and Jesus
Orphaned at the age of 6, raised by his grandfather and uncle
Became a trader and business manager

4. Revelations Age 40 Meditating in a cave
Angel Gabriel came to him told him to spread the word of Islam
Spread the word that there is only one god to worship (monotheism)
Why would people not like Muhammad’s message?
Muhammad was ostracized from Mecca

5. Islam Spreads Muhammad slowly began to attract followers
To survive, Muhammad and his followers had to leave Mecca
Hijra: 622 A.D., Muhammad and his followers to go Medina where they were promised freedom to practice their own religion
This marks year one in the Islamic calendar

6. Qur’an/Koran Holy book of the Muslims
Contains the teachings of Islam (words spoke to Muhammad by Gabriel)
Recognizes the teachings of Judaism and Christianity
Believe hat Jesus was born of the spirit of God
Written in Arabic

7. Five Pillars 5 duties for each Muslimi
Statement of Faith, “There is not God but Allah, and Muhammad is His prophet”
Prayer, pray five times a day facing Mecca, show their surrender to God
Giving alms, help the poor and needy by giving money to them or caring for them
Fasting, holy month of Ramadan, don’t eat or drink between sunrise and sunset
Hajj: pilgrimage to Mecca (birthplace of Muhammad)

8. Muhammad Dies No named successor This causes a split: Sunni/Shia
Suunis: believe that Muhammad did not choose a successor and a vote should happen
Shi’ites: believe that a new religious leader should be related to Muhammad

10. Golden Age of Islam
The reasons for the success of Islam, and the expansion of its empire, can be attributed to the strength of the Arab armies, the use of a common language, and fair treatment of conquered peoples
Arab armies were able to quickly conquer territory through the use of advanced tactics and the employment of horse and camel cavalry.  Islamic rulers were very tolerant of conquered peoples, and welcomed conversion to the Islamic faith.  All Muslims must learn Arabic, so they can read the Qur'an, the Islamic holy book.  This common language helped to unite many different ethnic groups within the Islamic empire.  It also made possible the easy exchange of knowledge and ideas