The World of Islam

Islam, a faith, a way of life, a world. This primary source portfolio reveals thirteen centuries of achievement in thought and action from Morocco to the Philippines, from Dar-es-Salaam to Samarkand. The achievements of early scholars and scientists put the world of Islam far ahead of Europe in medicine, astronomy, mathematics, and technology. Islamic art and literature, designed to glorify the faith of Islam, produced beautiful and sophisticated works and the traditions and skills of the ancient Islamic world are still very much alive today. This portfolio describes and illustrates the main features of Islamic art, science, architecture, and the written word and sets them against the background of Islamic history. What happens during Ramadan? Which is the oldest mosque in the world? Who invented algebra? What have tabby cats to do with Baghdad? These are just a few of the many questions answered in this portfolio. This portfolio includes a Study Guide with reproducible student activities. 9 Primary Source Documents: * The Prophet and the Faith, in words and pictures * The Qur'an, verses from Chapters VI and VII * The Spread of Islam, specially drawn historical maps * The Hajj pilgrimage, part of a pilgrim's souvenir brochure * Mosques, an illustrated feature * The Cities of Islam, a survey of famous Islamic cities * The Arts of Islam, reproductions of some of Islam's greatest treasures * Islamic Science, descriptions and illustrations of the most outstanding achievements by Muslim scientists in medicine, mathematics, optics, and astronomy * Great Lives, some of the most famous Muslim rulers, mystics, and writers