AP World History Unit III Timeline

600 CE-670 CE

Period: Jan 1, 600 to Dec 31, 670

Although the Muslim Empire had many disputes over succession, their formation of a navy, the early conquest of Mecca, and their rapid expansion shows that the Muslim Empire has growing military ambitions.

First Revelations

Jul 1, 610

Muhammad claims to receive messages from God and begins spreading this message. This shows a change, as before this the only Arabic religions were ones with animism and polytheism.

Flight to Medina

Aug 1, 622

Muhammad goes to Medina with his loyal followers after Mecca deems Islam a threat. This is continuity, because Mecca still has little culture and underdeveloped religion.

Muslims take Mecca

Jun 1, 630

In 630, the Muslims conquered Mecca. This shows a drastic change, as now Mecca is forced into Islam, which will eventually become a very developed religion.

Muhammad's Death

Jun 1, 632

Muhammad dies in 632, leaving no clear successor to rule the Arabian peninsula that his Muslim followers had conquered. This is change, as no one knew who should really become the next leader because several people were trying to take the position for themselves.

Battle of Yamama

Dec 1, 632

A battle was fought between the first caliph Abu Bakr and Musailima for control of the Muslim empire. This shows continuity, as people had been debating and fighting over who was the rightful caliph.

Caliph Umar is Assassinated

Nov 2, 644

Umar ibn al-Khattab, the caliph, is assassinated and there is some dispute over who his successor should be. This represents continuity, as the Muslim Empire continues to have trouble selecting a new leader.

Defeat of the Byzantine Navy

Aug 1, 655

The Byzantine Navy was defeated by the Muslim navy at the Battle of the Masts in 655. This represents change, as the Muslims now have easy access to the Mediterranean Sea.

First Fitna

May 3, 656

Uthman ibn Affan, the caliph, was assassinated by Egyptian rebels and a civil war for the position of caliph began. This marks a change, as this was the first war over succession.

Umayyad Rule Begins

Apr 4, 661

Hasan ibn Ali signed a peace treaty between the Sunnis and the Shi'a and made Muawiyah the caliph. He then became the first Umayyad caliph, and the Umayyads ruled for many years after him. This is change, as it shows a shift from succession disputes in between caliphs to dynasties.

Navy is Established

Mar 2, 2022

The regional governor of Syria, Muawiyah I, sets up a navy to defend the Muslim Empire against the Byzantine navy. This is change, as before this the Byzantines could attack the Muslims without fear of naval retaliation.