"The nature of Islam remains an area of intense and topical interest. In this volume, Tamara Sonn offers a history of Islam, which is accessible without being simplistic." "This book traces Islamic history beginning with the life of Muhammad and the birth of Islamic ideals, through Islam's phenomenal geographical expansion and cultural development, right up to the creation of modern states and the current situation in Islamic societies. Its accessible structure allows the reader to clearly grasp the inter-related cultural, political, and ideological developments of this powerful global force." "Throughout this book, representative events, characters, and movements have been chosen to highlight the key issues and involve the reader. The book concludes with vignettes of Islamic life that represent current challenges facing Islamic societies. Written by a leading figure in Islamic studies, this book offers a brief history of this major world religion."--BOOK JACKET.