Developments in Dar al-Islam from 1200-1450

Ethan Taylor
9 min read
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#AP World History: Modern - Dar al-Islam Study Guide π
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#Foundations of Islam & Dar al-Islam
#What is Islam? βͺοΈ
- Monotheistic Faith: Founded by the Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century. Muslims believe in one God, Allah.
- Quran: The holy book of Islam, believed to be the final revelation of God's word.
- Key Beliefs: Muhammad is the last prophet, following in the line of Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.
- Sharia Law: A strict code of conduct covering all aspects of life, from prayer to social behavior.
- Global Reach: One of the world's largest and fastest-growing religions, dominant in many regions.
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Key Concept
Defining Dar al-Islam
- Meaning: Arabic for "the abode of Islam," referring to lands where Islam is dominant and Sharia law is practiced.
- Contrast: Opposed to Dar al-Harb ("the abode of war"), which are non-Islamic lands.
- Goal: Traditionally, Muslims aimed to spread Islam and establish a unified global Muslim society.
- Historical Context: During the 7th-13th centuries, it referred to Muslim-controlled territories.
- Modern Interpretation: Now often used to refer to the global Muslim community.
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Quick Fact
Expansion & Tolerance
- Trade Connections: Islamic expansion across North Africa and the Middle East boosted trade networks.
- Jizya Tax: Non-Muslims paid this tax for protection and religious freedom within Muslim-controlled lands.
- Varying Application: Jizya was sometimes a sign of submission, other times a way to allow religious practice.
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Quick Fact
Battle of Tours (732 CE)
- Location: Tours, France (also known as the Battle of Poitiers).
- Combatants: Frankish forces led by Charles Martel vs. Islamic army.
- Outcome: Frankish victory halted Islamic expansion into Europe.
- Significance: A turning point, marking the end of Islamic conquest in Europe and the start of Christian reconquest.
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Quick Fact
Al-Andalus (711-1492 CE)
- Location: Iberian Peninsula (modern Spain and Portugal).
- Character: A center of culture, learning, and trade under Muslim rule.
- Diversity: Influenced by Arab, Berber, and Jewish cultures, creating a tolerant society.
- Legacy: Visible in the art, architecture (like Cordoba), and ironwork of Toledo.
Caption: The extent of Islamic expansion. Image Courtesy of Wikipedia
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Common Mistake
Women in Dar al-Islam
- Varying Roles: Women's positions have changed throughout history due to cultural, social, and political factors.
- Islamic Teachings: Men and women are considered equal before God with equal rights and responsibilities.
- Practice vs. Theory: Interpretation of these teachings has varied, leading to discriminatio...

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