ISLAM - A BRIEF HISTORY 2E

Reflecting recent global developments, the second edition of this illuminating introduction to Islamic history expands its coverage of the Qur'an, Sufism, and Muslim views on human rights, including the rights of women.
An expanded new edition of this concise, illuminating introduction to Islam, written by one of the field's leading scholars
Spans Islamic history from the life of Muhammad and the birth of Islamic ideals, through Islam's phenomenal geographical expansion and cultural development, to the creation of modern states and its role in today's global society
Features expanded coverage of the Qur'an, Sufism, and Muslim views on human rights, including the rights of women
Includes fascinating vignettes of Islamic life, representing mainstream Muslim viewpoints on issues of global concern
Explores the complex interrelationships of cultural, political, and ideological developments woven throughout Islamic history, drawing on specific examples including current developments in Pakistan

Tamara Sonn is the William R. Kenan, Jr., Professor of Humanities in the Department of Religious Studies at the College of William & Mary. She is the author of numerous books, including Interpreting Islam (1996) and Comparing Religions through Law (with J. Neusner, 1999), and is co-editor-in-chief of the Wiley-Blackwell online journal, Religion Compass.

List of Illustrations
Foreword
Preface
Preface to the First Edition
Maps
1. Many Paths to One God: Establishing the Ideals
The Quran
The Quran and Other Scriptures
Themes of the Quran
The Exemplary Life of Muhammad, Prophet of Islam: The Sunna
The Early Muslim Community and the Pillars of Islam
The Successors ("Caliphs")
Early Communal Disputes
Conclusion
2. The Pursuit of Knowledge in the Service of God and Humanity: The Golden Age
Institutions
Law
Political Structure
Cultural Achievements
Spirituality and the Mystical Tradition: Sufism
Conclusion
3. Division and Reorganization
The Crusades and Other Disasters
The Decline of the Abbasids and Rise of the Ottomans
Persia: The Safavid Empire
India and the Rise of the Mughals
Understanding Developments in Islamic History
Conclusion
4. Colonialism and Reform
Colonialism
The Outcome of World War I
The Effects of Colonialism: The Challenge of Islamic Reform
Themes of Islamic Reform: Personal Initiative and Social Solidarity
Themes of Islamic Reform: Ijtihad
Themes of Islamic Reform: Commitment to Learning
Conclusion
5. Obstacles and Prospects for Islamic Reform
Obstacles: The Impact of Colonialism
Prospects for the Future
Islam, Human Rights, and Democracy
Islam among World Religions
Notes
Further Reading
Source Acknowledgments
Index