The History of Islam

Islam is one of the world's largest religions. It began in the Arabian Peninsula around 610 CE. Muslims believe that God, called Allah in Arabic, sent messages to a man named Muhammad through an angel. Muhammad shared these messages with people around him. His followers wrote them down in a holy book called the Quran. Today, nearly two billion people around the world follow Islam.

The Prophet Muhammad

Muhammad was born in the city of Mecca around 570 CE. He was known as an honest and kind person. Muslims believe that when he was 40 years old, an angel brought him messages from God. He began teaching people about these messages. At first, many people in Mecca did not accept his teachings. Muhammad and his followers moved to a city called Medina. There, the Muslim community grew strong.

The Growth of Islam

After Muhammad's death in 632 CE, Islam continued to grow. Muslim scholars made great advances in math, science, and medicine. They built beautiful mosques and libraries. The Islamic Golden Age was a time of learning and discovery. Muslim traders and travelers spread the religion to Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe. Today, Islam is practiced in countries all around the world.

Fun Facts

• Muslim mathematicians invented the number system we use today, including the number zero.
• The word 'algebra' comes from an Arabic word.
• The Quran is always written and read in Arabic, no matter what country a Muslim lives in.

Did You Know?

During the Islamic Golden Age, the city of Baghdad had a huge library called the House of Wisdom where scholars from many countries came to study and share ideas.