The Rise of Islam

Available for over a year

Episode seven - the rise of Arabic dynasties and the spread of Islam in north and sub-Saharan Africa. In early 7th Century, northern Africa became the first region outside of Arabia to convert to Islam. Today, Islam is one of the two biggest religions on the continent. But how did it spread, and why? "Actually the Muslims at the time did not want to go outside Arabia, but when they defeated the Persians and then the Romans, simultaneously, they instantly became an international power." Dr Abdul Wahab Al-Effendi. Presented by Hugh Quarshie.