Islam Dbq

Islam would not have existed without Muhammad. After his passing, his successors strived to aid the growth of Islam as much as possible. They used many tricks and tools to broaden their religion to an extensive region. Islamic civilization spread to encompass such an extensive empire due to its ability to defeat inferior opponents with its skilled, disciplined army and its appealing nature to people, yet tolerance to those who chose not to participate in Islam.

The first reason for Islamic spread and success: a military that thrived. The Islamic Army was quite skilled and well disciplined. The inability of their opponents like the Byzantines and the Sasanians also added to their army's success. They were thought of as warriors… "The movement acquired momentum as the warriors passed from victory to victory…" (Doc 7). They were described to be "like the fury and cruelty of raging tigers "(Doc 4). In addition to this vast army, the Islamic empire also spread due to its appeal and flexibility.

The second basis for Islamic spread and success: appeal and tolerance. Islam was pleasing to countless groups. Islam and Mohammed offered paradise "whosoever shall obey God and His Apostle, He shall bring him into the gardens of [Paradise]…" (Doc 2). This lead Muslims on some occasions to prefer death over life "each and every one of whom death is preferable to life…" (Doc 3). But to those who