Topic 1.2 - Developments in Dar al-Islam

Who was the Prophet Muhammad?

Muhammad ibn Abdullah, the founder of Islam.

What is the Quran?

The holy book of Islam, composed of verses revealed to Muhammad.

What marks the beginning of Islamic expansion into north Africa?

The Muslim conquest of Egypt in 642.

When did Muslim forces invade and conquer Spain?

In 711.

What significant battle occurred in 751 involving the Abbasid Empire?

The Battle of Talas, where Abbasid forces stopped Tang Chinese expansion.

What empires emerged after the decline of the Abbasid Caliphate?

The Seljuk Empire, Mamluk Sultanate, and Delhi Sultanate.

What was the Seljuk Empire known for?

Nomadic Turkic peoples who restored Sunni Muslim unity after taking over Abbasid territory.

What does 'Mamluk' mean?

'Owned' or 'slave'; refers to the military caste that ruled the Mamluk Sultanate.

Who was Shajar al-Durr?

The first ruler of the Mamluk Sultanate, who ruled as Sultana for three months.

What trade routes did the Mamluk Sultanate control?

Overland trade from Asia through Aleppo into Europe and maritime trade via the Red Sea.

What led to the decline of the Mamluk Sultanate?

The Black Plague, a weakening political structure, and losses in trade.

Who founded the Delhi Sultanate?

Qutb-Din Aibak, a former slave of a Muslim warlord.

What role did Sufi missionaries play in the spread of Islam in India?

They promoted a more personal and experiential approach to Islam, appealing to Hindus.

What was the Translation Movement?

An effort during the Islamic Golden Age to translate ancient texts into Arabic.

What impact did the Translation Movement have on Europe?

It set the stage for the Renaissance and the Scientific Revolution.

How were early Islamic states tolerant of other religions?

Christians and Jews were recognized as 'people of the book' but had to pay a tax called 'jizya'.

How did Islam spread to West Africa?

Through the Trans-Saharan trade routes, not by conquest.

Who was Mansa Musa?

The ruler of the Mali Empire known for his legendary pilgrimage to Mecca.

What role did Sufi missionaries play in spreading Islam to China?

They traveled along the Silk Road and established mosques combining Arabic and Chinese architecture.

What was the significance of Zheng He?

A famous Chinese explorer from a Muslim family, who promoted trade and Islamic culture.