Question

В истории каких стран Азии и Африки важнуюроль сыграл ислам ? Вчем заключалась эта роль ?

Answer 1

Во многих час­тях Азии и Африки важную роль про­должают играть традиционные ценности, в основном связанные с религией. Большое влияние на жизнь стран Ближнего и Среднего Востока, а также ряда других государств Азии и Африки оказывает ислам. В условиях процесса вестернизации, насаждения западных (в первую очередь американских) стандартов жизни ислам стал спо­собом защиты от чуждого влияния.

В Иране с 1950-х гг. правительство шаха Мохаммеда Реза Пех­леви начало проводить реформы, целью которых являлся переход страны на путь западного, капиталистического развития. Увеличе­ние добычи нефти в 1960—1970-х гг. стало причиной экономическо­го бума в Иране. Однако традиционные основы жизни, тесно свя­занные с шиитским направлением в исламе, вступили в противоре­чие с прозападными преобразованиями. Репрессии шахского правительства, направленные против вождей религиозной оппози­ции, только обострили ситуацию. В 1979 г. в Иране произошла ис­ламская революция, которую возглавил аятолла Рухолла Хомейни. Все стороны жизни страны были подчинены догматам ислама. Резко ухудшились отношения Ирана с Западом, особенно с Соединён­ными Штатами, которые исламские революционеры провозгласили своим главным врагом.

Answer 2

The Role of Islam in the History of Asia and Africa

Islam has played a significant role in the history of several countries in Asia and Africa. The impact of Islam can be seen in various aspects, including religion, culture, politics, and society. Here are some key points highlighting the role of Islam in the history of these regions:

1. Spread of Islam: - Islam originated in the Arabian Peninsula in the 7th century and quickly spread across Asia and Africa through trade, conquest, and missionary activities. - The expansion of Islam was facilitated by the military successes of early Muslim caliphates, such as the Rashidun and Umayyad caliphates, which conquered vast territories and established Islamic rule. - The spread of Islam brought about significant cultural, religious, and political changes in the regions it reached.

2. Cultural and Religious Influence: - Islam became a dominant religion in many Asian and African countries, shaping their cultural and religious practices. - Islamic teachings and values influenced various aspects of life, including art, architecture, literature, music, and cuisine. - Islamic scholars and centers of learning, such as the House of Wisdom in Baghdad and Al-Azhar University in Cairo, played a crucial role in the preservation and development of knowledge in fields like science, mathematics, medicine, and philosophy.

3. Political and Social Impact: - Islamic empires and dynasties emerged in different parts of Asia and Africa, leaving a lasting impact on the political landscape. - The Abbasid Caliphate, for example, established a sophisticated administrative system and promoted trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. - The Ottoman Empire, one of the most powerful Islamic empires, controlled vast territories in Asia, Europe, and Africa, shaping the political and social structures of the regions it ruled. - Islamic law, known as Sharia, influenced legal systems and social norms in many countries, providing a framework for governance and personal conduct.

4. Trade and Economic Influence: - Islamic merchants played a crucial role in the development of trade networks, connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. - Cities like Baghdad, Cairo, and Timbuktu became major centers of trade and commerce, attracting merchants from different parts of the world. - Islamic banking and financial practices, such as the establishment of the first banks and the use of paper currency, contributed to the growth of economic activities.

5. Resistance against Colonialism: - In the 19th and 20th centuries, Islam played a significant role in the resistance against European colonialism in Asia and Africa. - Movements like the Mahdist uprising in Sudan and the Aceh War in Indonesia were driven by Islamic ideals and aimed to defend local cultures and independence. - Islamic leaders and organizations, such as the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt and the All India Muslim League in British India, played a crucial role in advocating for self-determination and independence.

It is important to note that the role of Islam in the history of Asia and Africa is complex and varied, with different countries and regions experiencing its influence in unique ways. The points mentioned above provide a general overview of the significant role Islam has played in shaping the history and development of these regions.