Medieval Islamic History
Explore the medieval period of Islam: Umayyad and Abbasid caliphates, the Islamic Golden Age, scientific achievements, and cultural flourishing that shaped the medieval world.
Historical Timeline
Umayyad Caliphate (661-750 CE)
The first hereditary caliphate, expanding Islamic rule across three continents.
Foundation of Umayyad Dynasty
Muawiyah establishes the Umayyad caliphate in Damascus.
Conquest of Spain
Tariq ibn Ziyad leads Muslim forces into the Iberian Peninsula.
Battle of Tours
Muslim advance into France is halted by Charles Martel.
Fall of Umayyads
Abbasid revolution overthrows Umayyad rule, except in Spain.
Abbasid Caliphate (750-1258 CE)
The golden age of Islamic civilization, marked by cultural and scientific achievements.
Abbasid Revolution
Abu al-Abbas establishes Abbasid rule, moving capital to Iraq.
Foundation of Baghdad
Caliph al-Mansur builds Baghdad as the new capital.
Reign of Harun al-Rashid
Peak of Abbasid power and cultural flourishing.
Reign of al-Ma'mun
Patron of science and philosophy, House of Wisdom established.
Seljuk Conquest
Seljuk Turks take control, beginning Turkish influence.
Mongol Sack of Baghdad
Mongols destroy Baghdad, ending Abbasid caliphate.
Regional Dynasties (750-1500 CE)
Period of multiple Islamic dynasties ruling different regions.
Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba
Muslim rule in Spain, cultural and architectural achievements.
Fatimid Caliphate
Shi'a dynasty in North Africa and Egypt, founded Cairo.
Seljuk Empire
Turkish dynasty ruling much of the Middle East.
Ayyubid Dynasty
Saladin's dynasty, known for fighting the Crusades.
Mamluk Sultanate
Slave-soldier dynasty ruling Egypt and Syria.
Key Figures
Key Contributions:
- Established hereditary caliphate
- Expanded Islamic territories
- Administrative reforms
- Naval power development
Key Contributions:
- Cultural patronage
- Diplomatic relations
- Economic prosperity
- Literary achievements
Key Contributions:
- House of Wisdom
- Translation movement
- Scientific patronage
- Religious tolerance
Key Contributions:
- Recapture of Jerusalem
- Crusader resistance
- Unified Muslim forces
- Chivalrous reputation
Key Contributions:
- Medical encyclopedia
- Philosophical works
- Scientific method
- Influence on Europe
Key Contributions:
- Algebra development
- Algorithm concept
- Astronomical tables
- Mathematical notation
Cultural and Scientific Achievements
- Advances in algebra and geometry
- Medical encyclopedias
- Astronomical observations
- Chemical processes
- Integration of Greek philosophy
- Islamic theology development
- Sufi mysticism
- Religious tolerance
- Mosque architecture
- Calligraphy and illumination
- Geometric patterns
- Garden design
- Arabic poetry revival
- Persian literature
- Story collections
- Historical chronicles
Cultural Impact
- Madrasa system
- University foundations
- Library networks
- Translation centers
- Silk Road connections
- Banking innovations
- Market regulations
- International trade
- Planned cities
- Infrastructure projects
- Public services
- Architectural innovations
- Religious tolerance
- Social mobility
- Women's education
- Cultural diversity
Study Resources
Essential medieval Islamic texts:
- • Historical Chronicles
- • Scientific Works
- • Literary Collections
- • Travel Accounts
Understanding the medieval Islamic world:
- • Byzantine Empire
- • Crusades
- • Mongol Invasions
- • Trade Networks
Medieval Islamic architecture:
- • Great Mosques
- • Palaces and Fortresses
- • Gardens and Fountains
- • Urban Planning
Continue Your Study
The medieval period represents the golden age of Islamic civilization, with achievements that influenced the entire world. Explore the modern period to see how Islam continues to evolve.