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Class 11 History Notes Chapter 4 The
Central Islamic Lands
July 22, 2019 by Bhagya
Class 11 History Notes Chapter 4 The Central
Islamic Lands
Prior to the rise of Islam, Arabia was quite backward socially, politically,
economically and religiously in the 7th century.
Before the rise of Islam, Arabia was dominated by the Bedouins, a nomadic tribe.
Family was the basic unit of the Arabian society. Patriarchal family system was
prevalent in which the head of the family was the eldest male member.
The position of the women in the society was very deplorable.
Date-palm and milk were the main constituents of their food items.
Institution of slavery was also prevalent in the society. The slaves were treated
ruthlesslyand were severely punished if broke the social norms. k
Prior to the rise of Islam, the trade was not much developed. It was because
Bedouins Iwere always indulged in loot and plunder and trade routes were not
safe.
The principle of‘Might is right’ prevailed in the society prior to the rise of Islam,
because there was lack of a central authority.
Prophet Muhammad is regarded as one of the greatest personalities in the world
history. He was born at Mecca in 570.
Reciting Raima, Namaz, Rauja, Zakat and Hajj are five pillars of Islam.
Islam laid special stress on the principle of equality and believed that all men are
the descendants of Allah.
Islam strongly opposed idol worship.
The successors of Prophet Muhammad were called Khalifas (Caliphs).
The main duties of the Khalifas were to safeguard and spread Islam.
The Umayyad dynasty was founded by Muawiya in 661. The rule of this dynasty
continued till 750.
The Abbasids came to power in 750. The foundation of Abbasids dynasty was laid
down by Abu-ol-Abbas in 750.
9th century witnessed the downfall of the Abbasid empire. Taking the advantage
of this, several sultanates emerged.
The economic condition of Islamic world, during the medieval period was very
prosperous.
During medieval period, a new sect arose among the people having faith in
Islamic doctrines, known as sufi sect.
The Sufis were liberal in their thought and they dedicated their lives for the service
of humanity and propagation of Islam.

