A short history of Islam

An introduction to the development of Islam from its birth among the nomadic peoples of seventh-century Arabia to its present status as one of the world's great religions.

The book includes a brief account of the life and teachings of Muhammad, the creation of the Arab nation, the spread of Islam to Africa, Asia and Europe, and the flowering of Arab civilization.

The author also provides a balanced examination of contemporary developments such as fundamentalism, jihad and the status of women.