Umayyad dynasty

The Umayyad dynasty was the first major Islamic caliphate, ruling from 661 to 750 CE. It was established after the death of the Prophet Muhammad and expanded the Islamic empire significantly, reaching parts of Spain, North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. The Umayyads centralized political power and emphasized Arab culture and identity. Their rule marked a shift from the Prophet’s community-focused leadership to a more political and territorial empire. Despite achievements in expansion and administration, their rule also faced criticism for inequality and elitism, leading to their eventual decline and replacement by the Abbasid dynasty.