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Developments in Dar al-Islam from 1200-1450

Ethan Taylor

Ethan Taylor

9 min read

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AP World History: Modern - Dar al-Islam Study Guide πŸ•Œ

Hey! Let's get you prepped for the exam with a super-focused review of Dar al-Islam. Think of this as your ultimate cheat sheet, designed to make everything click right before the big day! πŸš€

Foundations of Islam & Dar al-Islam

What is Islam? β˜ͺ️

  • 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.

Key Concept

Defining Dar al-Islam

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  • 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.

Quick Fact

Expansion & Tolerance

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  • 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.

Quick Fact

Battle of Tours (732 CE)

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  • 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.

Quick Fact

Al-Andalus (711-1492 CE)

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  • 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.

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Caption: The extent of Islamic expansion. Image Courtesy of Wikipedia

Common Mistake

Women in Dar al-Islam

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  • 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...