Islamic History Podcast
The Islamic History Podcast explores the rich and often overlooked history of Islam, covering events, figures, and civilizations that shaped the Muslim world and beyond. It aims to make Islamic history accessible and engaging for both Muslims and non-Muslims, highlighting its global impact. The podcast presents historical narratives in a fun and educational manner, drawing lessons from the past.
Episodes
The Last Umayyad Caliph | IHP 11-3
The military doctrine of Marwan II reshaped the final years of the Umayyad Dynasty as he attempted to stabilize a rapidly fracturing empire. In this episode of the Islamic History Podcast, we explore the chaotic period leading to the end of the Umayyad Caliphate, starting with the short and troubled reign of Yazid III, nicknamed al-Naqis (the Inadequate).
We examine the ambitious populist agenda a
The Caliphate in Chaos | IHP 11-2
The Assassination of Caliph Walid II serves as the violent climax to an era of mounting tension, marking the definitive start of the Third Fitna civil war. This episode explores the roots of this collapse, beginning with the Early History and Passive Protest of Sufism, where figures like Al-Hasan al-Basri withdrew from the "society's corruption" to focus on the inner self . We analyze the dangerou
America’s ICE Crackdown: Raids, Killings and Public Outcry
Host Majid and guest Muttaqi Ismail discuss recent US enforcement actions—ICE and Border Patrol raids, the killing in Minneapolis, and community reactions—placing these events in the context of immigrant communities, politics, and public protest. They also cover how social media, particularly TikTok, and shifting narratives are changing grassroots activism.
The conversation broadens to the global
The Breaking Point | IHP 11-1
In this episode of the Islamic History Podcast, we explore the Umayyad Caliphate’s growing instability during 121–122 AH. From failed Byzantine campaigns to major rebellions in Iraq and North Africa, the empire's reliance on Syrian troops reaches a breaking point.
The First Signs of Decay | IHP 11-0
Despite fleeting military victories, internal cracks deepen in the Umayyad Caliphate as unjust taxes, tribal rivalries, and the rise of the Mawali set the stage for the empire’s inevitable downfall.
Bonus: Caliphate to Monarchy
Bonus episode about the history of the Caliphate.
Bonus: The Umayyad Caliphate 4-3 Promo
In this episode, we explore the fragile balance of power during the later years of the Umayyad Caliphate under Caliph Hisham ibn Abdul Malik. Between 112–114 AH (731–733 CE), the empire faced crushing defeats on nearly every frontier. Yet Hisham refused to abandon his policy of ceaseless expansion. Temporary truces bought the Caliphate breathing room, but soon the armies were back in motion—someti
Bonus - The Umayyad Caliphate 4-2 Promo
In this episode of the Umayyad Caliphate, we continue our exploration of Caliph Hisham ibn Abdul Malik’s reign as the Umayyad Caliphate faces mounting crises across its vast empire.
The year is 110 AH (728 CE), and the empire’s edges are on fire.
In the Caucasus, Maslamah ibn Abdul Malik leads a grueling campaign against the Khazar Khaganate through the treacherous Darial Pass. Despite claiming vi
Bonus: The Umayyad Caliphate 4-1 Promo
Enjoy this promotional episode from The Umayyad Caliphate Season 4. Subscribe via Patreon, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, or Spotify.
10-12: The Closing
In this special recap episode, we revisit the grand saga of the Mughal Empire—its rise, zenith, and eventual decline. From Babur’s bold conquests to Aurangzeb’s vast reign, we reflect on the emperors, battles, culture, and legacies that shaped South Asia’s history. Join us as we connect the threads of this epic journey and set the stage for what’s next.
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10-11: The Last Mughal
In this episode, we delve into the dramatic fall of Bahadur Shah II, the last Mughal emperor. Discover how the 1857 Revolt sealed his fate, leading to his deposition and exile to Rangoon. We explore the end of a dynasty that once ruled vast territories, marking the twilight of Mughal power and the dawn of British dominance in India.
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10-10: The Sepoy
Explore how rising racism among British officials and the East India Company shaped colonial policies and strained relations with Indian sepoys. This episode delves into the deepening divide, fueled by prejudice and power, that set the stage for rebellion and resistance.
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10-9: The Company
In the early 1800s, the Mughal emperor was little more than a figurehead under East India Company rule. This episode unpacks how the Company tightened its grip on Delhi, controlled imperial authority, and set the stage for the empire’s final decline, shaping the future of British rule in India.
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10-8: The Rohilla
In this episode, we dive into the brutal rise and fall of Ghulam Qadir, the Rohilla chieftain who seized Delhi in 1788, humiliated the Mughal court, and infamously blinded Emperor Shah Alam II. A tale of betrayal, vengeance, and imperial decline—this is the shocking story of one of the Mughal Empire’s darkest chapters.
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10-7: The Mercenary
Explore the life of Mirza Najaf, a formidable Persian mercenary in the Mughal era. From his strategic prowess on the battlefield to his influence in shaping Mughal politics, this episode delves into the legacy of a warrior who bridged cultures and left an indelible mark on Indian history.
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10-6: The Prince
In this episode, we uncover the brief and bizarre reign of Emperor Shah Jahan II, who ascended the Mughal throne in absentia after his father’s assassination. Overshadowed by court intrigue and swiftly dethroned, his story is a testament to the empire’s turbulent decline. Tune in for this forgotten chapter of history!
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10-5: The Grand Vizier
In this episode, we uncover the tumultuous rise of Imad ul Mulk, the Mughal Grand Vizier who played a pivotal role in the empire’s decline. From court intrigues to his betrayal of the emperor, discover how his ruthless ambition reshaped Mughal politics and hastened the empire’s fragmentation.
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10-4: The Nizam
Nizam-ul-Mulk, also known as Asaf Jah I, rose to prominence as a skilled administrator and military commander under the Mughal Empire before founding the Hyderabad State in 1724. Disillusioned by the weakening Mughal central authority, he established an independent dominion in the Deccan, leveraging his strategic acumen and strong support among local elites.
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10-3: The Afghan
Ahmad Shah Durrani, also known as the "Father of Modern Afghanistan," rose to power in 1747 after uniting various Afghan tribes following the collapse of the Persian Safavid Empire. As the founder of the Durrani Empire, he leveraged his military prowess and strategic alliances to expand his rule across Afghanistan, parts of modern-day Pakistan, and northern India.
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10-2: The Persian
Nader Shah, provoked by Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah’s failure to address Afghan incursions that disrupted Persian trade routes, an opportunity to exploit the weakened empire and expand his power.
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10-1: The Playboy
In this episode, we discuss Emperor Muhammad Shah Rangeela. His reign (1719–1748) is often remembered for its indulgence in luxury and neglect of governance. Known as the "playboy emperor," he prioritized personal pleasures, art, and music over the pressing political and military challenges of the Mughal Empire.
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10-0: The Opening
Season 10, the final chapter in the Mughal saga, is here.
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History of Black American Muslims with the Muslim Mum
This is an interview I did recently with Sister Mariya from the Muslim Mum YouTube channel.
In this episode, we discuss my background, the history of black Muslims in the United States, and what to make of a new Trump presidency.
Bonus: US Elections 2024
Discussing the upcoming elections with Majid Hussein, the Muslim Podcaster.
Arabic and Hip Hop with Imam Marc Manley
I sit down with Imam Marc Manley of Middle Ground Islamic Center in southern California. We talk about his journey to acquire Islamic knowledge, the problem with how we're taught Arabic, and the moral decay of modern pop music, especially hip-hop.
Visit his blog imammarc.com and subscribe to his podcast Middle Ground Podcast
Sudan Conflict With Mazin Khalil
Sudanese-American Mazin Khalil explains the history and politics behind the current civil war in Sudan.
Donate to the Sudanese American Physicians Association
Black People Need Islam with Bilal Stroud
Discussing Islam in Black America with Atlanta-based activist and da'ee, Bilal Stroud.
Support Bilal's dawah efforts here.
https://gofund.me/d5428959
UK Riots and Red Pill Bros
I sit down with Br. Majid Hussein from the Muslim Podcast to discuss the recent anti-Muslim riots in the UK.
Bonus: Muslim Inventions 1
A look into various Islamic contributions to science and culture.
The Special Relationship 4
Who is the Israel lobby?
Campus Protests And More
An interview with the Islamic Vibez Podcast
The Special Relationship 3
Did the Palestinians ever truly want peace?
The Special Relationship 2
Does the U.S. benefit from the special relationship?
The Special Relationship 1
Why does the United States support Israel?
Bonus: Umayyad Caliphate 3-1
A portion of the first episode of the third season of the Umayyad Caliphate.
9-16: The Mughals Part 2 - Farrukh Siyar’s Folly
Farrukh Siyar angers the wrong people.
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9-15: The Mughals Part 2 - Farrukh Siyar’s Revolt
Farrukh Siyar revolts against Jahandar.
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9-14: The Mughals Part 2 - Jahandar’s Alliance
A new alliance brings a new Emperor.
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9-13: The Mughals Part 2 - Bahadur Shah’s Reign
The short reign of Bahadur Shah,
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9-12: The Mughals Part 2 - Aurangzeb’s Jizyah
Why did Aurangzeb impose the jizyah?
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9-11: The Mughals Part 2 - Aurangzeb’s Demise
The final days of Aurangzeb.
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9-10: The Mughals Part 2 - Aurangzeb’s Enemies
Aurangzeb fights Afghans, English, Marathas, and Rajputs.
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9-9: The Mughals Part 2 - Aurangzeb’s Problems
The Marathas and the Deccan are problems for Aurangzeb.
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9-8: The Mughals Part 2 - Aurangzeb’s Brothers
A winner emerges from the fratricidal war.
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9-7: The Mughals Part 2 - Shah Jahan’s Sons
The fratricidal war begins.
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9-6: The Mughals Part 2 - Shah Jahan’s Ambition
Shah Jahan's ambitions cause problems for the Mughals.
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9-5: The Mughals Part 2 - Shah Jahan’s Rise
The death of Jahangir and the rise of Shah Jahan.
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Bonus: Gaza 2023
Discussing the recent events in Gaza
9-4: The Mughals Part 2 - Jahangir’s Troubles
As Jahangir grows sicker and more dependent on his wife and opium, a political scuffle begins.
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9-3: The Mughals Part 2 - Jehangir’s Family
Jehangir deals with a rebellion led by his son.
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9-2: The Mughals Part 2 - Akbar’s Death
The death and legacy of Akbar the Great.
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9-1: The Mughals Part 2 - Akbar’s Administration
How did Akbar manage his sprawling empire?
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9-0: The Mughals Part 2 - Introduction
Introducing Season 9 of the Islamic History Podcast where we continue the story of the Mughal Empire.
Afghanistan 1-1: The Chaos Begins
The political history of Afghanistan from 1826 to 1978. It's not good.
The Umayyad Caliphate 2-13: Al-Andalus
The Umayyad forces complete the conquest of North Africa, then cross over into Iberia.
The Umayyad Caliphate 2-11: Sindh 1
Hajjaj ibn Yusuf sends his young cousin, Muhammad ibn al-Qasim, east to capture Sindh.
The Umayyad Caliphate 2-1: The Peacock Army 1
Beginning of the Umayyad Caliphate Season 2. We recap Season 1, provide expectations for Season 2, and continue our discussion of Ibn al-Ash'ath's rebellion.
The Umayyad Caliphate 1-1: Introduction
Discussing the development of the Islamic Caliphate from the death of Prophet Muhammad to the death of Ibn Zubayr.
Saladin 19 - The Battle of Hattin
As-Salaamu Alaikum, welcome back to Islamic History Exclusive.
This is the podcast exclusively for Patreon subscribers of the Islamic History Podcast.
In this series, we are going over the life of Salahuddin al-Ayyubi known to the west as Saladin.
In today’s episode, we’ll be discussing the Battle of Hattin.
But before we get into that, let's begin with a recap of where we are so far.
1. From 1
Saladin 3: Crusader Conquest of Jerusalem 1
The Crusaders have reached Jerusalem and prepare for a siege and assault.
Ibn Zubayr 6 - The Penitents and Mukhtar
Ibn Zubayr's governor is in Kufah but the Shiite's do not recognize his authority. Two groups of Shiites are growing in Kufah and they want to get revenge for Husayn ibn Ali's death.
8-16: The Mughals Part 1 - Akbar and Religion
Akbar tries to remove all religious divisions in his empire by creating a new religion.
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8-15: The Mughals Part 1 - Akbar and the Rajputs
Akbar neutralizes the Rajputs using a combination of diplomacy and warfare.
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8-14: The Mughals Part 1 - Akbar and his Handlers
Akbar is only a teenager when he becomes the Mughal emperor and everyone wants a piece of him.
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8-13: The Mughals Part 1 - Humayun and Akbar
India is in chaos and the people want Humayun to come back. Can he pull off one of the greatest comebacks in history?
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8-12: The Mughals Part 1 - Humayun and the Safavids
After losing his empire, Humayun receives help from an unlikely source: the Safavid Empire.
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8-11: The Mughals Part 1 - Humayun and the Portuguese
As Humayun struggles to establish his authority, Portugal struggles to create a new trade network in the subcontinent.
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8-10: The Mughals Part 1 - Babur and the Afghans
With the Rajputs pacified for the time being, Babur turns his attention to his Afghan enemies.
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8-9: The Mughals Part 1 - Babur and the Rajputs
Babur has two major obstacles standing in his way in India. One of them, is the Rajputs, a mighty warrior caste.
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8-8: The Mughals Part 1 - Babur and India
Babur begins his first raids into India setting the stage for the establishment of the Mughal Dynasty.
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8-7: The Mughals Part 1 - Babur and the Uzbeks
Babur begins his invasion of Afghanistan but has to deal with the Uzbek warlord, Shaybani Khan.
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8-6: The Mughals Part 1 - Babur and Samarkand
The early life of Babur and his attempts to capture Samarkand.
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8-5: The Mughals Part 1 - Tamerlane and Asia
Discussing the rise and conquests of Timur the Lame.
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8-4: The Mughals Part 1 - Civil War and Mongols
Discussing the breakup of the Mongol Empire.
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8-3: The Mughals Part 1 - Baghdad and Mongols
Hulegu Khan and the Ilkhanate initiated a siege on the Abbasid capital of Baghdad in 1258.
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8-2: The Mughals Part 1 - Muslims and Mongols
Genghis Khan leads his Mongol army into Central Asia. One of his first opponents is the Muslim Khwarezm Shah Empire. This begins the long, bloody, and brutal Mongol invasion of the Muslim world.
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8-1: The Mughals Part 1 - Chinese and Mongols
In this episode, we discuss the rise of Genghis Khan, and how he united the Mongol tribes and began expanding into China and Central Asia.
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8-0: The Mughals Part 1 - Introduction
Introducing the Mughal Empire
Bonus 7-15: Battle of Talas 2
The Muslim soldiers of the Abbasid Caliphate prepare to face off with the Chinese soldiers of the Tang Dynasty.
Bonus 7-14: The Battle of Talas 1
The Battle of Talas was a pivotal moment in history and one of the earliest engagements between Muslim and Chinese forces.
This battle involved the forces of the new Abbasid Caliphate, going up against a resurgent Tang Dynasty. Both empires wanted to secure their hold over Central Asia and its valuable Silk Road routes.
This episode discusses the origins of the two sides in this conflict.
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