Global Studies Notes
Global Studies Notes
What is Islam?
Islam began in Arabia in the 7th century. Prophet Muhammad
preached the belief in one God, Allah, and emphasized leading a
moral life. The Quran is the holy book of Islam and guides Muslims in
faith, worship, and daily life.
Spread of Islam
Islam spread through trade, military conquests, and missionary
efforts. It united regions under a single law, Sharia, and encouraged
learning and cultural development.
Delhi Sultanate
The Delhi Sultanate lasted from 1206 to 1526, during which five
Muslim dynasties ruled over Delhi and large parts of the Indian
subcontinent.
Slave Dynasty (1206–1290)
Qutb-ud-Din Aibak founded the dynasty and ruled from Lahore. He
started building the Qutb Minar in Delhi. Iltutmish strengthened the
empire, made Delhi the capital, and minted coins. Razia Sultana was
the first and only female ruler, known for her bravery and
administrative skills, though she faced opposition for being a woman.
Mughal Empire
The Mughal Empire ruled much of the Indian subcontinent from 1526
to 1857.
Babur (1526–1530)
Babur founded the Mughal Empire after defeating Ibrahim Lodi. He
was descended from Timur and Genghis Khan and wrote the
Baburnama, an autobiography.
Humayun (1530–1556)
Humayun lost the empire to Sher Shah Suri but regained it with
Persian support.
Akbar (1556–1605)
Akbar was known for religious tolerance, allowing people of all
religions to practice freely. He abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims,
built a strong administration, and encouraged arts, culture, and a fair
taxation system.
Jahangir (1605–1627)
Jahangir loved art and architecture and continued Akbar’s policies of
tolerance. His wife, Nur Jahan, played a significant role in governance.
Aurangzeb (1658–1707)
Aurangzeb expanded the empire to its largest extent and reintroduced
the jizya tax. His strict policies led to revolts by Hindus, Sikhs, and
other groups.
Mining in Pakistan
Mining is important but often harms the environment and poses risks
to workers. Examples include the Khewra salt mines, one of the
largest in the world, and coal mines used for energy production.
Environmental Concerns
Over-mining causes deforestation, water pollution, and displacement
of communities. Unsafe working conditions often lead to accidents.
Sustainable Practices
Safer mining methods and land reclamation can reduce environmental
damage.
Founding
After the fourth caliph, Ali, Muawiyah I became the first Umayyad
caliph. The capital moved from Medina to Damascus.
Achievements
The Umayyads expanded the empire from Spain to Central Asia. They
unified regions with Arabic as the official language and built iconic
structures like the Dome of the Rock.
Challenges
They faced criticism for favoring Arab Muslims over non-Arabs,
leading to divisions. Revolts weakened their rule.
Decline
The dynasty ended in 750 after the Abbasid Revolution. Abd al-
Rahman I escaped to Spain, establishing the Umayyad Emirate of
Cordoba.
Founding
The Abbasids overthrew the Umayyads and established their capital in
Baghdad. They claimed descent from Abbas, the Prophet
Muhammad’s uncle.
Achievements
The Abbasid period was a Golden Age of Islam, with advancements in
science, medicine, and philosophy. The House of Wisdom in Baghdad
became a major intellectual center.
Challenges
The vast empire faced revolts and the rise of independent states like
the Fatimids in Egypt.
Decline
In 1258, the Mongols destroyed Baghdad, marking the end of the
Abbasid Caliphate.
Legacy
The Abbasid era shaped modern science, medicine, and education and
left a lasting cultural and intellectual legacy.