Islamic Golden Age

• Number System   * Islamic scholars borrowed the Indian number system that spread along the Silk Road   * Arabic numbers are done in groups of ten and include the concept of zero
• Algebra   * Developed method to solve difficult math problems, called “Al-Jabar”   * Substitute x, y, and z to solve math problems
• Chemistry   * Islamic scholars were the first to try to separate compounds   * For example, they discovered that all metals were a mixture of sulfur and mercury, and the gold was a perfect balance of them
• Navigation   * Improved the astrolabe to make it a very reliable tool to determine direction   * Added ways to calculate longitude, latitude, and directions   * Helped Muslims find the location of Mecca, and sailors find their destination
• Banking   * Muslim caliphs were among the first to have widespread banks   * Trade grew since they allowed merchants to cash checks at any Islamic banks
• Education   * Islamic scholars translate Greek, Persian, and Indian works into the “House of Wisdom”   * A major center in modern-day Baghdad contained massive libraries, open halls for debate, taught multiple languages, and preserved culture for millions
• Art   * Muslim artists used geometric and floral patterns instead of making art of people and animals   * Created a unique style that attracted attention of markets around the world
• Chess   * Indian game that was made very popular by Muslim intellects   * The challenge of the game made it very popular at the House of Wisdom
• Literature   * Poetry is one of the greatest Islamic art styles   * Usually sung and kept it short   * Arabian Nights is a collection of Arabic folktales about a genie and a magic lamp
• Architecture   * Beautiful mosques built to show respect for Allah and Muhammad   * Used domes, columns, and geometric designs

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