Islamic History Podcast

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 dangerous intersection of religion and politics in the Qadariyya Heresy and Doctrine of Predestination, a movement that directly challenged the Caliph’s authority. As internal divisions widened, the empire faced external exhaustion during the Umayyad Military Struggles in Khorasan and the Byzantine Frontier, where massive losses at sea and on land drained the treasury. This instability reached a breaking point in the West with the Berber Revolts and Civil War in Al-Andalus, leading to the unprecedented enslavement of Muslims by fellow Muslims and the permanent loss of central control over Morocco and Spain. Join us as we trace the tragic legacy of Caliph Hisham and the libertine reign of Walid II that brought a once-mighty dynasty to its knees.

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 picture: growing skepticism about a rules-based international order, interventions from the US in places like Venezuela and Greenland, unrest in Iran, and how these developments may shape future elections and power dynamics.

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.

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 episode about the history of the Caliphate.

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—sometimes roaring, sometimes limping—toward new campaigns. From 115–120 AH, the Umayyads managed a partial comeback. Victories against the Turgesh in Central Asia, renewed advances in Sindh, and territorial gains in France seemed to restore momentum. But these successes often proved hollow. Each campaign drained the Caliphate’s coffers and manpower, leaving little capacity to improve life for its citizens. Meanwhile, internal cracks widened. The Mawali, non-Arab converts to Islam, increasingly protested an unjust tax system. Tribal rivalries were deliberately stoked by Hisham to maintain control, while provincial governors hoarded wealth, tortured predecessors, and entrenched corruption. Rather than strengthening the empire, these policies steadily weakened it. Every battlefield gain came at the cost of domestic stability. As the pressure mounted, the Umayyads were unknowingly laying the groundwork for their own downfall—making it easier for another movement to rise and challenge their rule. Join us as we examine this turbulent period of fleeting victories, deepening unrest, and the first signs of the empire’s unraveling.

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 victory, his retreat is chaotic, marked by ambushes, torrential rain, and widespread exhaustion. Meanwhile, cracks appear in the empire’s eastern front. In Khurasan, a well-intentioned tax policy by Governor Ashras unleashes a wave of conversions among non-Arab Muslims—but when the policy is reversed, these new converts revolt. Their rebellion draws in the powerful Turgesh Khaganate, sparking a devastating loss for the Umayyads at the Battle of Baykand and the bloody Siege of Karmajah. We also examine the collapse of Muslim authority in India, the chaotic military campaigns in Anatolia led by Hisham’s sons, and the shocking fall of Ardabil to the Khazars—a disaster that results in the death of a Muslim governor and the capture of tens of thousands of civilians. As we move through these events, we see a common theme: a once-dominant caliphate now overstretched, undermanned, and increasingly reactive. The Muslim armies are no longer conquering; they’re fighting to survive. Strategic missteps, overreliance on loyalist Syrian troops, and a refusal to adapt military policy are setting the stage for further instability. This episode paints a grim but necessary portrait of an empire entering a period of sustained decline. From Armenia to Transoxiana, we witness the human cost of imperial overreach—and the resilience of those left to defend a collapsing frontier.

Enjoy this promotional episode from The Umayyad Caliphate Season 4. Subscribe via Patreon, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, or Spotify.

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. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for ”10-12”.

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. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for ”10-11”.

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. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for ”10-10”.

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.

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. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for ”10-8”

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. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for ”10-7”

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!

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.

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. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-4"

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.

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.

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. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for ”10-1”

Season 10, the final chapter in the Mughal saga, is here. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-0"

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.

Discussing the upcoming elections with Majid Hussein, the Muslim Podcaster.

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

Who is the Israel lobby?

Did the Palestinians ever truly want peace?

Sudanese-American Mazin Khalil explains the history and politics behind the current civil war in Sudan. Donate to the Sudanese American Physicians Association https://sapa.usa.org

Discussing Islam in Black America with Atlanta-based activist and da’ee, Bilal Stroud.

I sit down with Br. Majid Hussein from the Muslim Podcast to discuss the recent anti-Muslim riots in the UK.

A look into various Islamic contributions to science and culture.

An interview with the Islamic Vibez Podcast

Does the U.S. benefit from the special relationship?

Why does the United States support Israel?

A portion of the first episode of the third season of the Umayyad Caliphate.

Farrukh Siyar angers the wrong people.

Farrukh Siyar revolts against Jahandar

A new alliance brings a new Emperor.

The short reign of Bahadur Shah

Why did Aurangzeb impose the jizyah?

The final days of Aurangzeb

Aurangzeb fights Afghans, English, Marathas, and Rajputs.

The Marathas and the Deccan are problems for Aurangzeb

A winner emerges from the fratricidal war.

The fratricidal war begins.

Shah Jahan’s ambitions cause problems for the Mughals.

The death of Jahangir and the rise of Shah Jahan

Discussing the recent events in Gaza

As Jahangir grows sicker and more dependent on his wife and opium, a political scuffle begins.

Prince Khusrau rebelled against his father, Emperor Jehangir, in 1606 in a bid for the Mughal throne, leading to a tumultuous struggle for power and eventual defeat.

The death and legacy of Akbar the Great.

How did Akbar manage his sprawling empire?

Introducing Season 9 of the Islamic History Podcast where we continue the story of the Mughal Empire.

The political history of Afghanistan from 1826 to 1978. It's not good.

The Umayyad forces complete the conquest of North Africa, then cross over into Iberia.

Hajjaj ibn Yusuf sends his young cousin, Muhammad ibn al-Qasim, east to capture Sindh.

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.

Discussing the development of the Islamic Caliphate from the death of Prophet Muhammad to the death of Ibn Zubayr.

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 1183 to 1185, Salahuddin launches several raids into Frankish Palestine and Transjordan 2. The Franks, stymied by infighting and weak leadership, are unable to respond appropriately 3. Baldwin IV dies in 1186 and his eight-year-old nephew, Baldwin V takes the throne 4. Salahuddin falls gravely ill in the winter of 1186 and his empire almost disintegrates 5. Once he recovers, Salahuddin makes peace with the Zengis and Mosul becomes a vassal And with that, let’s discuss the Battle of Hattin, one of the most important events in Muslim history.

The Crusaders have reached Jerusalem and prepare for a siege and assault.

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.

Akbar tries to remove all religious divisions in his empire by creating a new religion.

Akbar neutralizes the Rajputs using a combination of diplomacy and warfare.

Akbar is only a teenager when he becomes the Mughal emperor and everyone wants a piece of him.

India is in chaos and the people want Humayun to come back. Can he pull off one of the greatest comebacks in history?

After losing his empire, Humayun receives help from an unlikely source: the Safavid Empire.

As Humayun struggles to establish his authority, Portugal struggles to create a new trade network in the subcontinent.

With the Rajputs pacified for the time being, Babur turns his attention to his Afghan enemies.

Babur has two major obstacles standing in his way in India. One of them, are the Rajputs, a mighty warrior caste.

Babur begins his first raids into India setting the stage for the establishment of the Mughal Dynasty.

Babur begins his invasion of Afghanistan but has to deal with the Uzbek warlord, Shaybani Khan.

The early life of Babur and his attempts to capture Samarkand.

Discussing the rise and conquests of Timur the Lame.

Discussing the breakup of the Mongol Empire.

Hulegu Khan and the Ilkhanate initiates a siege on the Abbasid capital of Baghdad in 1258.

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.

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.

Introducing the Mughal Empire

The Muslim soldiers of the Abbasid Caliphate prepare to face off with the Chinese soldiers of the Tang Dynasty.

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.

In this episode, I interview Brother Wali Muhammad, an elder from my local Masjid.  We discuss his journey growing up a black man in North Carolina and how he went from Christianity to the Nation of Islam and finally to mainstream Islam.

Politics in the Mughal capital of Delhi have a major impact on Malik Ambar’s desire to keep Ahmadnagar independent.

Malik Ambar continues to lead the Ahmadnagar Sultanate’s resistance against the Mughal Empire.

Malik Ambar was an East African Muslim who was also the effective ruler of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate in the Deccan region of India. In this episode, we’ll discuss Malik Ambar’s rise to power in the Deccan.

Part 3 of a collaboration with Maajid Hussain of the Islamic Vibes Podcast discussing Islam, slavery, and Africa.

Part 2 of a collaboration with Maajid Hussain of the Islamic Vibes Podcast discussing Islam, slavery, and Africa.

This is a collaboration with Maajid Hussain of the Islamic Vibes Podcast discussing Islam, slavery, and Africa. Basically, Muslim’s role in the African slave trade. That is, Muslims in general, and Arabs in particular.

Originally aired: December 22, 2019 Why are so many Muslims distrustful of the Freemasons? In this episode, we’ll explore the history of Freemasons and their relationship, if any, to Islam.

With Hijra from Gobir, Shehu Uthman dan Fodiyo launches a jihad against the rulers of Hausaland. Little by little, the Sokoto Caliphate begins to take shape.

Mohammed Artan joins us again to drop knowledge on Islam in Somalia and East Africa.

The Sokoto Caliphate was one of the most influential and famous sub-Saharan Islamic empires. Founded by Shehu Uthman dan Fodio, the Sokoto Caliphate was born from a struggle against injustice. Read and download some of Shehu Uthman dan Fodio’s works.

While in Volga Bulgaria, Ibn Fadlan witnesses a Viking funeral and records what he saw. We’ll also compare the historical Ibn Fadlan to the Hollywood version.

Ibn Fadlan traveled to the land of the Volga Bulgarians as part of an embassy from the Abbasid Caliph. While there, he encountered a group of Vikings and recorded what he witnessed

A few interesting historical interactions between Vikings and Muslims.

Closing thoughts on the Bosnian War.

2 million ethnic-Albanian Kosovars are ruled by 200000 Serbs. Serbian President, Slobodan Milosevic, built his political platform on repressing the Kosovars. And they’re tired of it.

After the fall of Srebrenica and Zepe, and another market attack, the United States is finally ready to take the lead in ending the war in Bosnia.

In the summer of 1995, the Muslim enclaves of Srebrenica and Zepe fall to the Serbs.

Frustrated with the European’s and UN’s handling of the violence in Bosnia, the United States takes a more active role.

After a deadly market massacre and a siege on Gorazde, the United Nations finally calls on NATO to conduct airstrikes.