The Muslim conquest of Egypt refers to the military campaigns led by the Rashidun Caliphate against the Sasanian Empire and Byzantine Empire from 639 to 646 CE, which resulted in the establishment of Muslim rule over Egypt. Here are the key events and details:
Egypt, at the time, was part of the Byzantine Empire, and its strategic importance was due to its fertile land, control over the Nile River, and its position as a trade route between the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. The Byzantine control over Egypt was weakened by internal strife, religious disputes, and economic challenges.
The campaign began under the command of Amr ibn al-As in 639 CE. He led an army of about 4,000 men, but his forces were supplemented by local support and alliances. The conquest was marked by several key battles:
The conquest of Egypt by Muslims led to significant changes:
After securing Egypt, the Muslims expanded into North Africa and established the province of Egypt under the Rashidun Caliphate. Egypt became a major center of Islamic culture, scholarship, and trade.
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