Historical Encyclopedia
The Islamic era in Iraq began in the 7th century when Arab conquerors spread the Islamic faith throughout the region. Since then, Iraq has become one of the key centers of Islamic civilization, influencing culture, science, and politics not only in the Arab world but also beyond. The stages of the Islamic era encompass significant historical events such as the Arab conquest, the establishment of caliphates, a cultural flourishing, and complex political changes.
The Arab conquest of Iraq began in 634 with the Battle of Qadisiyyah, where the Arab army achieved victory over Persian forces. This event marked the beginning of a long conquest process that was completed by 651. With the fall of the Sassanian Empire, Iraq became part of the Islamic world and was incorporated into the Arab Caliphate.
With the formation of the first caliphates, such as the Rashidun Caliphs (632-661) and the Umayyad Caliphate (661-750), Iraq became an important administrative and cultural center. The city of Kufa became one of the first capitals of the caliphate and a place where a new Islamic identity was formed.
From the 8th century onwards, Iraq became the center of the Golden Age of Islam. This period was characterized by significant cultural, scientific, and economic development. Baghdad, founded in 762, became the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate and one of the largest cities in the world.
Famous scientific and cultural institutions such as the House of Wisdom emerged in Baghdad, where scholars from across the Islamic world gathered to study, translate, and develop knowledge.
Islamic scholars made significant contributions to various fields of science, including mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and philosophy. The works of scholars such as Al-Khwarizmi, Al-Farabi, and Avicenna laid the foundation for further scientific development in Europe and Asia.
From the late 9th century onwards, political instability began in Iraq. The division of the caliphate into various dynasties, such as the Tulunids and the Samanids, led to a fragmentation of power. In 1258, Baghdad was captured by Mongol forces led by Hulagu Khan, resulting in the city's destruction and the fall of the Abbasid Caliphate.
The Mongol invasion was a tragic event for Iraq, leading to a period of devastation and decline. However, even during this difficult time, Islamic culture continued to be preserved and developed, creating new directions in art and science.
From the 16th century onwards, Iraq became part of the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman period lasted for over three centuries and had a significant impact on the cultural and social development of the region. Baghdad once again became an important center where different cultures and traditions intertwined.
Under Ottoman rule, Iraq became a place where various religious and ethnic groups coexisted. This diversity facilitated cultural exchange, which is reflected in architecture, literature, and art.
The 20th century was a time of significant changes for Iraq. After World War I and the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Iraq became a mandated territory of Great Britain. In 1932, Iraq gained independence, marking the beginning of a new phase in its history.
Islam continues to play an important role in the lives of the Iraqi people. Islamic traditions, cultural practices, and religious rituals remain vital aspects of daily life. Modern Iraqis continue to grapple with the consequences of conflicts and political instability while maintaining their Islamic identity.
The Islamic era in Iraq has left a profound mark on human history. This period became a time of cultural flourishing, scientific discoveries, and political changes. Iraq, as a center of Islamic civilization, influenced the development of culture, science, and politics not only in the Arab world but also beyond. The legacy of the Islamic era continues to live in the hearts of Iraqis, shaping their identity and society.