and in turn, expanded the Muslim empire. At this time, Muslim officers
began to collect personal and property taxes from these conquered
populations. Interestingly, Islamic converts were only charged taxes for
their property and Arab settlers were not taxed at all. In fact, they
received "salaries" (276) from taxes that were collected from of the rest
of the population. Umar's successor, Uthman was what is considered a
"great centralizer" (276) who continued with the tradition of taxing but he
also authorized a text of the Qur'an. Uthman wanted to preserve the
traditional Meccan elite and, as a result, he alienated large groups of
individuals--especially those in Syria, Egypt, and Iraq.
Ali succeeded Uthman and it was his desire to "create a truly Islamic
government" (276). Ali was murdered and succeeded by Mu'awiya, who had
previously served as governor of Syria. He was also known for commanding
one of the greatest Muslim armies of his time. Under the leadership of
Mu'awiya, Islam gained some of its longest-lasting institutions, which
survived until the tenth century. As a result of greater centralization,
included an integrated coinage system, the "Arabization" (276) of
administrations, and a tighter control of taxation. Additionally, the
capitol was moved to the more centrally located city of Damascus.
The Abbasid Revolution resulted from a number of rebellions against
Mu'awiya and his followers. While they were mighty militarily, they were
resented by many individuals because of their oppression. It is also
interesting to note that many Muslims were displeased with Mu'awiya. Abu'l
Abbas defeated Mu'awiya in 750 and the Abbasic era lasted well into the
thirteenth century. It is believed that in the early years of his era, the
Islamic world experienced its first golden age. (277) For instance, there
was political stability as well as economic growth. Part of the...