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persecution of Muhammad and his followers. Many faced social ostracism, economic
boycotts, and physical violence.
5. The Hijra: Migration to Medina
In 622 CE, facing increasing hostility in Mecca, Muhammad and his followers migrated to
Medina (then known as Yathrib). This event, known as the Hijra, marks the beginning of the
Islamic calendar. In Medina, Muhammad was accepted as a leader and mediator, and he
established a community based on Islamic principles. This period saw the formulation of the
Constitution of Medina, which outlined the rights and responsibilities of all citizens,
including Muslims and non-Muslims.
6. Consolidation of Islam
In Medina, Islam began to flourish. Muhammad established a mosque, which served as a
place of worship and community gathering. He also led several military campaigns against
the Quraysh and other tribes, culminating in the Battle of Badr in 624 CE, where the
Muslims achieved a significant victory.
Over time, more tribes began to convert to Islam, drawn by its message of equality, social
justice, and community. In 630 CE, Muhammad and his followers marched on Mecca, and
the city surrendered peacefully. He cleansed the Kaaba of idols, establishing it as the central
shrine of Islam.
7. The Final Years and Death of Muhammad
Following the conquest of Mecca, Muhammad continued to spread Islam across Arabia. In
632 CE, he delivered his Farewell Sermon during the Hajj, summarizing key teachings and
emphasizing the importance of community and unity among Muslims. Shortly after, he
passed away in Medina at the age of 63.
8. The Formation of the Caliphate
After Muhammad’s death, the leadership of the Muslim community passed to the Caliphs.
The first four caliphs, known as the Rightly Guided Caliphs (Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and
Ali), played a crucial role in expanding Islam beyond the Arabian Peninsula. This period,
known as the Rashidun Caliphate, witnessed rapid conquests and the establishment of
Islamic governance in regions like the Levant, Egypt, and Persia.
9. Spread of Islam Beyond Arabia
Islam continued to spread through trade, conquests, and missionary efforts. The Umayyad
Caliphate (661–750 CE) expanded the Islamic empire further into North Africa, Spain, and
Central Asia. This era saw the establishment of major cities like Damascus and Cordoba,
which became cultural and intellectual centers.
During the Abbasid Caliphate (750–1258 CE), the Islamic Golden Age emerged, marked by
advancements in science, philosophy, medicine, and the arts. Scholars like Al-Khwarizmi and
Ibn Sina made significant contributions, influencing various fields of study.