HIST 387: Topics in Global History

HIST 387-002: Islamic Empires
(Fall 2026)

07:20 PM to 10:00 PM M

Peterson Hall 2408

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Section Information for Fall 2026

Islam was born in Mecca in the early sixteenth century, and soon led the way to the formation of major empires from Central Asia to Spain. While introducing a new faith, languages and peoples through expansion, these empires also led to subtle civilizational interactions between among indigenous peoples. They blended ancient cultures, and created new forms of art, architecture, science, and philosophy. While Islam remained to be the prime unifying element across these empires, they were neither stagnant nor monolitic. Rather, they housed diverse societies with cosmopolitan cities. The course will cover major Islamic empires from the rise of Islam to modern times, including the Umayyads, Abbasids, Fatimids, Ottomans, Safavids, and Mughals. Defining characteristics, principal institutions, social structures, ruling ideologies, distinctive cultures, and interactions with the broader world will be covered.

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Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3-6

Study of historical topics or periods of special interest in global, Latin American, African, Asian, or Middle Eastern history. Notes: Topics announced in advance. May be repeated for credit when topic is different. Offered by History & Art History. May be repeated within the term.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Global Understanding
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies, Non-Western Culture
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

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