The course covers the origins, history, and contemporary relevance of Islam in thought, ideas, politics, and military affairs. The course examines the life and teaching of the Prophet Muhammad, the Quran. Students will explore the early history and territorial expansion of the Umayyads, Abbasids, major sectarian splits, Sharia and the Orthodox Tradition, Sufism, and Sultanates. The course also explores the impact of Western colonialism, orthodox reaction, Iranian Revolution, Islamism, neo-Wahabbism (Al-Qaida), and jihadi movements in Afghanistan, Balkans, Caucasus, Philippines, and Kashmir. Prerequisites: None (3-0-3)