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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