Course Overview: Embark on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Islamic history, spanning from the dawn of Islam to contemporary times. This course provides a cursory but comprehensive overview of the evolution of Islamic societies, empires, and movements, introducing pivotal events, figures, and ideologies that have shaped the Muslim world. Delve into the challenges, triumphs, and transformations that define the legacy of Islam.

Course Structure:

September: Final Revelation and the First Century

• Introduction to Islamic History:

  • Uncover the significance of studying Islamic history and its relevance today.

• Pre-Islamic Arabia and the Life of the Prophet Muhammad:

  • Explore the socio-cultural context of pre-Islamic Arabia and the transformative life of Prophet Muhammad.

• The Rashidun Caliphate:

  • Dive into the reign of the first four caliphs, analyzing their leadership and contributions.

• The Umayyad Caliphate:

  • Examine the Umayyad dynasty’s rule and its impact on Islamic governance.

October: Renaissance to Chaos? 2nd-6th Century AH

• The Abbasid Caliphate:

  • Trace the intellectual, cultural, and political resurgence during the Abbasid era.

• Islamic Spain (Al-Andalus):

  • Discover the flourishing civilization of Al-Andalus and its lasting influence.

November: The Decline 7th-13th Century

• The Crusades and Islamic Empires:

  • Unearth the dynamics of the Crusades and the simultaneous rise of Islamic empires.

• The Mongol Invasions and Their Aftermath:

  • Examine the impact of the Mongol invasions on Islamic societies and their subsequent revival.

• Safavid Persia and Mughal India:

  • Explore the cultural and political legacies of the Safavid and Mughal empires.

• Islamic Reform Movements and Colonialism:

  • Investigate reformist movements, responses to colonialism, and challenges to Islamic identity.

• Modern Nation-States and Independence Movements:

  • Analyze the struggle for independence and the formation of modern Muslim nation-states.

December: Reflection – Revival, Restoration, and Anecdotes of Forgotten History

• Islamic Revivalism and Globalization:

  • Study contemporary efforts to rejuvenate Islamic thought and practice.

• Women in Islamic History:

  • Celebrate the role and contributions of women in Islamic history.

• Contemporary Issues in the Muslim World:

  • Discuss current challenges and debates within the Muslim world.

• Review and Reflection:

  • Summarize key insights gained throughout the course.

Prerequisites: No prior knowledge of Islamic history is required; an open mind and curiosity are encouraged.

Recommended Materials:

• Course readings provided by the instructor
• Historical texts and primary sources related to each period

Note: Join us on this illuminating expedition, guided by Ayatullah, as we uncover the intricate layers of Islamic history. Explore the vibrant past that continues to shape the present, and gain valuable insights into the diverse tapestry of the Muslim world. Please note that this course offers a broad introduction to Islamic history and is not an in-depth study of individual topics.

Course information

Name of Course: Journey Through Islamic History

Days and Timings:

• Sundays from 2 pm to 3 pm Mountain time. 

Duration: Four Months From September 2023 – December 2023

The first class is on September 3rd, 2023