
7th century Islamic history
The 7th century was crucial for Islam’s emergence; it marks the life of Prophet Muhammad (ca. 570–632) in Mecca and Medina, where he received divine revelations that formed the Quran. After facing opposition, Muhammad united Arab tribes under Islam. Following his death, in 632, Muslim armies rapidly expanded beyond Arabia into the Byzantine and Persian empires, spreading the religion, culture, and administration. This period laid the foundation for a vast Islamic empire, shaping history and societies across Asia, Africa, and Europe. The 7th century thus saw the birth of Islam and its early geographic and cultural expansion.