Chapter 2 - The Formation of an Empire

• There were three main groups among Muhammad's followers
  • Early companions from the time of the hijra
  • People in power in Madina
  • Members of the leading Meccan families.
• After Muhammad's death, Abu Bakr, an early companion was chosen as the khalifa (the Prophet's successor).
• Abu Bakr was father to Aisha, one of the Prophet's wives.
• The Caliphs created an army and conquered lands from empires, continuing from where Muhammad had left off.
• The first four caliphs are known to the majority of Muslims as the Rashidun or 'rightly guided'.
• After them, the position became virtually hereditary.
• The capital moved to Damascus.
• New coins were minted which had words in Arabic proclaiming the oneness of God instead of human figures of old.
• Mosques were used for prayer and to transact public business.