'Uthman ibn 'Affan (d. 656) was an early convert to Islam and the third successor to the Prophet Muhammad. As caliph he established the first Islamic navy, consolidated the text of the Qur'an, and expanded the Arab empire. His opponents, however, accused him of being corrupt and questioned his legitimacy.

After twelve years 'Uthman's troubled caliphate ended in revolt. His death at the hands of rebels led to civil war and contributed to the eventual split between Sunni and Shi'i Islam. In this volume, Heather Keaney examines the life and legacy of the controversial caliph.

The life and legacy of the controversial caliph who consolidated the text of the Qur'an and expanded the borders of Islam

About the Author

Heather Keaney is Associate Professor of History at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California. She teaches, researches and writes on various religio-political debates in the medieval and modern Middle East. She is the author of Medieval Islamic Historiography.

Reviews

'Keaney's book offers as balanced a view of 'Uthman's life, character and policies as one could hope for... She skilfully traces how the controversies that first arose with 'Uthman in the seventh century were spun out in later centuries by various Islamic thinkers, right up to the twenty-first century and the "Arab Spring." Clearly and engagingly written throughout, it is an outstanding introduction to Islam's nagging sectarian divisions and political thought.'

-- Fred M. Donner, Peter B. Ritzma Professor of Near Eastern History, University of Chicago



Book Information
ISBN 9781786076977
Author Heather N. Keaney
Format Hardback
Page Count 176
Imprint Oneworld Academic
Publisher Oneworld Publications
Dimensions(mm) 216mm * 135mm * 16mm