Unit 1-2: Trade and Empire Building (1200-1450 CE)

Flashcards covering the pre-Islamic Arabian context and the rise of Islam based on Unit 1-2 lecture notes.

What kind of environment and social structure existed in Arabia before Islam ca 600?

A harsh desert environment with people organized around close-knit clans known as Bedouin people.

What caused constant warfare among pre-Islamic clans around 600 CE?

Complicated traditions and feuds used to connect clans and lands.

What role did cities like Mecca play prior to the rise of Islam?

They were local centers of trade and religion, where gods existed but were not always important.

What were the lifespan years of Muhammad listed in the notes?

570-632 CE

How did Muhammad receive the revelations that became the basis of the Quran?

As a disillusioned trader meditating in a cave, the angel Gabriel brought the word of god to him.

What are the 5 pillars of Islam mentioned in the notes?

Charity, prayer (5 times), fasting, submit to Allah, and visit Mecca.

What designation is given to Muhammad in the notes regarding his role as a prophet?

"Seal of Prophets"

Where did Muhammad flee when he was deemed a threat by the rulers of Mecca?

Yathrib, which was renamed to Medina.

What action did Muhammad take in Mecca by the year 630?

Muhammad took over Mecca and destroyed the "false" idols and monuments.

What process did Muhammad begin after taking over Mecca in 630?

Military expansion and unification of tribes.