A History of the World in 100 Objects
Gold Coins of Abd al-Malik
Jun 7, 2010
Exploring the significance of gold coins minted by Abd al-Malik in Damascus, symbolizing the transformation of the city into the capital of a new Islamic empire. Abd al-Malik's manipulation of currency and integration of Arabic inscriptions on Islamic coins are discussed, highlighting the lasting impact of his rule and the first Islamic state.
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Quick takeaways
- The Islamic conquests rapidly transformed the political landscape of the Middle East, surpassing the spread of other major religions within a few decades.
- Abdall Malik's introduction of new Islamic coins, emphasizing religious text over human imagery, solidified his authority and fostered unity within the Islamic empire.
Deep dives
Transformation of the Middle East
The death of the Prophet Muhammad marked the beginning of a new era in the Middle East. In the years following his death, the power of Islam rapidly spread, conquering Egypt, Syria, Iraq, and Iran. The Islamic armies brought about a permanent change, shattering the political status quo previously held in the region. This transformation occurred in just a few decades, surpassing the spread of Christianity and Buddhism in a similar timeframe.
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