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.   Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-9"

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!   Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-6"

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. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-5"

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.  Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-3"

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. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-2"

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

Sudanese-American Mazin Khalil explains the history and politics behind the current civil war in Sudan. Donate to the Sudanese American Physicians Association

Discussing Islam in Black America with Atlanta-based activist and da'ee, Bilal Stroud.  Support Bilal's dawah efforts here. https://gofund.me/d5428959

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.

Who is the Israel lobby?

An interview with the Islamic Vibez Podcast

Did the Palestinians ever truly want peace?

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. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-16"

Farrukh Siyar revolts against Jahandar. Download my notes for this episode by joining the Telegram group and searching for "9-15".

A new alliance brings a new Emperor. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-14"

The short reign of Bahadur Shah, Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-13"

Why did Aurangzeb impose the jizyah? Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-12"

The final days of Aurangzeb. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-11"

Aurangzeb fights Afghans, English, Marathas, and Rajputs. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-10"

The Marathas and the Deccan are problems for Aurangzeb. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-9"

A winner emerges from the fratricidal war. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-8"

The fratricidal war begins. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-7"

Shah Jahan's ambitions cause problems for the Mughals. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-6"

The death of Jahangir and the rise of Shah Jahan. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-5"

Discussing the recent events in Gaza

As Jahangir grows sicker and more dependent on his wife and opium, a political scuffle begins. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-4"

Jehangir deals with a rebellion led by his son. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-3"

The death and legacy of Akbar the Great. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "9-2"