The Armies of the Caliphsis the first major study of the relationship between army and society in the early Islamic period, and reveals the pivotal role of the military in politics.
Through a thorough examination of recruitment, payment, weaponry and fortifications in the armies, The Armies of the Caliphsoffers the most comprehensive view to date of how the early Muslim Empire grew to control so many people. Using Arabic chronicles, surviving documents, and archaeological evidence, this book analyzes the military and the face of battle, and offers a timely reassessment of the early Islamic State.
'This book should long be the standard work on the subject for students, specialists and general readers.'-
Gerald Hawting, Times Literary Supplement'... a lucid exploration of the role of the military in early Islamic society... This is a very important book based on a careful and original reading of the sources. It constitutes a major addition to our understanding of early Islamic society.'-
John France, History, July 2003
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