‘Abd al-Malik, who came to prominence during the second civil war of early Islam, ruled the Islamic empire from 692 until 705. Not only did he successfully suppress rebellion within the Muslim world and expand its frontiers, but in many respects he founded the empire itself. By about 700, the forms of a new realm, which stretched from North Arica in the west to Iran in the east, has taken clear shape with ‘Abd al-Malik at its head. This book covers the beginnings and rise to power of this immensely influential caliph, as well as his religious policies and innovations, his fiscal, administrative and military reforms, and his legacy, including the Dome of the Rock, the oldest surviving monumental building erected by Muslims.
