Why did Islam spread through much of Southwest Asia during the 650s and 660s
Islam spread through much of Southwest Asia during the 650s and 660s primarily due to military conquests led by the Islamic Caliphate, as well as the appeal of the Islamic message and the benefits it offered to those who converted.
The Islamic Caliphate, under the leadership of Caliphs such as Umar ibn al-Khattab and Uthman ibn Affan, launched military campaigns into regions such as present-day Iraq, Syria, and Egypt, defeating the Byzantine and Sassanian empires. These conquests brought these regions under Islamic rule and facilitated the spread of Islam among the local populations.
Additionally, the Islamic message of monotheism, social justice, and equality appealed to many people in Southwest Asia who were dissatisfied with the corruption and inequalities of the existing social and political systems. Islam provided a sense of unity and community among diverse populations, offering a common identity and sense of purpose.
Furthermore, the Islamic Caliphate provided various economic, social, and legal benefits to those who converted to Islam, such as protection, access to trade networks, and a fair legal system based on Islamic principles. These incentives encouraged many people to embrace Islam and integrate into the growing Islamic civilization.
Overall, the combination of military conquests, the appeal of the Islamic message, and the benefits offered by the Islamic Caliphate contributed to the rapid spread of Islam throughout Southwest Asia during the 650s and 660s.