Umar ibn al-Khattab (r. 634-644 CE) was the second caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate (632-661 CE, as the first four caliphs are referred to by the Sunni Muslims). He was an early convert of Islam and one of the close companions of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad (l. 570-632 CE). After the death of Muhammad, he gave his utmost and loyal support to Abu Bakr, who then became the first caliph. After Abu Bakr's death in 634 CE, Umar became the next caliph – he continued his predecessor's campaigns and extended his dominion further from the Arabian Peninsula. In addition to multiple military successes, his reign was marked with marvels in administration. After his death, he was succeeded by Uthman ibn Affan (l. 579-656 CE) as the third ruler of the Rashidun Caliphate.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original definition at https://www.worldhistory.org/Umar/.
Join the Conversation
- Was Umar more important as a military leader or as a builder of government?
- Do you think Umar was right to remove Khalid from command?
- How do you think Umar's rules changed life for people in his empire?
Is there anything you'd like to ask me about this definition? Ask away — and if you spot something that should be covered, that's useful to know too.