HIST 112: Islamic Dynasties and Empires offers an in-depth exploration of the political, social, and cultural evolution of the Islamic world through its various dynasties and empires, from the Rashidun Caliphate in the 7th century through to the Ottoman Empire’s decline in the early 20th century. This course will delve into the rise and fall of major Islamic powers, including the Umayyads, Abbasids, Fatimids, Seljuks, Mamluks, Safavids, Mughals, and Ottomans, examining their contributions to the development of Islamic civilization, their governance models, military strategies, economic systems, and cultural and scientific advancements.
Overall Objectives:
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Trace the historical development and territorial expansion of the major Islamic dynasties and empires.
- Analyze the political, religious, and cultural policies that defined each dynasty and empire.
- Assess the impact of Islamic rule on the regions under their control and on global trade networks.
- Compare and contrast the governance and administrative structures across different Islamic empires.
- Understand the role of Islam in the statecraft and identity of these empires.
- Examine the contributions of Islamic dynasties to the arts, sciences, and literature.
- Identify the causes behind the rise and decline of each empire.
- Explore the interactions between Islamic empires and other contemporary powers.
- Evaluate the legacy of these dynasties and their influence on modern-day Islamic societies.
- Develop a nuanced understanding of the complexities and diversities within Islamic history.
Curriculum
- 14 Sections
- 0 Lessons
- 14 Weeks
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- Week 1: Introduction to Islamic Dynasties and Empires – Overview and historical significance.0
- Week 2: The Rashidun Caliphate and the Expansion of Islam – Examining the first caliphate\’s foundation and conquests.0
- Week 3: The Umayyad Caliphate – Rise, administration, and contributions to Islamic civilization.0
- Week 3: The Umayyad Caliphate – Rise, administration, and contributions to Islamic civilization.0
- Week 5: The Fatimids and the Islamic West – The establishment and impact of Shi\’a rule in North Africa and the Mediterranean.0
- Week 6: The Seljuk Empire – Influence on the Sunni revival and conflicts with the Byzantine Empire.0
- Week 7: The Mamluk Sultanate – Military slavery, governance, and defense against the Mongols and Crusaders.0
- Week 8: The Mongol Invasions and the Ilkhanate – Effects on the Islamic world and conversion to Islam.0
- Week 9: The Safavid Empire – Establishment of Shi\’a Islam in Iran, cultural renaissance, and rivalry with the Ottomans.0
- Week 10: The Ottoman Empire – Foundation, peak, and the role as a global power.0
- Week 11: The Mughal Empire in India – Contributions to architecture, administration, and multicultural society.0
- Week 12: Decline of Islamic Empires – Common factors and external pressures leading to their downfall.0
- Week 13: Imperial Legacies – Influence on modern national borders, cultures, and Islamic practice.0
- Week 14: Comparative Analysis and Conclusion – Review of the dynastic cycle, achievements, and lessons learned.0
