TED-Ed: The rise and fall of the medieval Islamic Empire | Petra Sijpesteijn and Birte Kristiansen

In the 7th century, Prophet Muhammad united Arabian tribes under Islam, forming a powerful empire. After his death, caliphs expanded the empire, but internal conflicts arose. The Umayyad dynasty stabilized the empire but faced legitimacy issues. The Abbasids overthrew them, establishing a culturally rich era in Baghdad. However, unclear succession led to corruption. In 1258, the Mongols destroyed Baghdad, ending the caliphate's symbolic rule. Despite its fall, the Islamic empire's influence persisted through language, religion, and intellectual contributions.

Who succeeded Prophet Muhammad as the first caliph?

• Ali

• Umar

• Uthman

• Abu Bakr

Which city became the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate?

• Mecca

• Medina

• Baghdad

• Damascus

What was a key factor in the Abbasid family's rise to power?

• Military conquest

• Claiming direct descent from the Prophet

• Economic reforms

• Alliance with the Byzantines

What was a significant cultural achievement during the Abbasid rule?

• Construction of the Great Wall

• Development of the Silk Road

• Invention of the printing press

• Intermingling of diverse cultures and knowledge

What event marked the end of the Abbasid Caliphate's power?

• The Crusades

• The rise of the Ottoman Empire

• The Black Death

• The Mongol invasion