Arab and Islamic History

Understanding the Islamic and Arab world culturally and historically is indispensible for any professional dealing with this part of the world. This course provides a basis for understanding international Islamic terrorism and radical ideologies propagated by both rogue regimes and organizations.

The advent of Islam during the 7th century AD unified and strengthened the Arabs living in Arabia. Joined under one leader, Mohammed was able to cobble together a strong coalition based on tribalism, Arab nationalism and the spirituality of a new religion. Arab Muslim armies quickly advanced to both Syria and Iraq and defeated the Byzantines and Persians. With the passing of the Prophet and his four successors, the Islamic world fractured into what are today known as Sunnis and Shi'a. Throughout Arab history, the seat of power rested in Damascus, Baghdad, Spain and Turkey, with rival states and personalities vying for power and control. The relationship between East and West, Muslims and non-Muslims and personalities are explored in order to provide a thorough introduction to the various players and historical figures in this part of the world.

This two hour course was designed by foreign policy experts that have spent significant time living, studying and working in the Arab/Islamic world. This course is a must for military personal deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan, government employees involved in foreign policy, financial institutions and companies doing business in the Middle East and/or emerging college leaders.

Who Should Attend
Military Personnel
Law Enforcement
Intelligence Analysts
Customs and Border Patrol
Financial Institutions
College Students
Non-profits

Prerequisites
None

Duration
1-2 Hours

Schedule
1. Introduction
2. Geography of the Arab and Islamic World
3. The Rise of Islam
4. The Prophet Mohammed and the four Caliphs
5. Islamic Dynasties
6. World War I and the Arab World
7. World War II and the Arab World
8. Major Events Post World War II