In about 610CE, the prophet Muhammad introduced the beginnings of the religion Islam. This later became one of the world's most powerful empires that spanned as much lands as if not more than Rome. Because of this, it was arguably one of the most important events of the time. After the death of Muhammad in 632CE, the political system of Caliphates was instituted by the elders of Islam. Muhammad's father-in-law was chosen to rule as the first caliph (or ruler/emperor). During the reigns of the first four caliphs, the Islamic Empire was considered to be under the Golden, or Pure, age of Islam. This caused much cultural unity throughout the region and lead towards a prosperous era. During this time the religion also spread throughout Southwest Asia because of its promise of salvation after death, and its tolerance of other cultures and religions. Trade and communication also prospered during the Golden Age of Islam because of the well connected and ruled system of governance. Exchange had always been strong in this region as this was one of the major parts of the Silk Roads. Southwest Asia connects Africa with Europe with Asia, and goods have always been moved through this region with ease. The Caliphates maintained if not improved the level of exchange between these major world regions by preserving pathways of travel and subduing any local disorder with the force of religion. This specific task was accomplished because the people of this area were not bonded by familial ties or ancient biological connections, but by their belief in Islam. This was the first major example of an extremely large group of people working together on a world-wide scale because of the religious beliefs.
Other Reigns
The Sassanid Empire, which was the last of the Persian Empires, spanned from 224CE to 651CE and fell with the rise of Islam. This Empire was the latest in a series that utilized empirical expansion and delegated governing to governors. The Sassanids were a monarchy, and their king was very important in both their political functions and social structure. This empire fell when Islam became a world power and continued to spread and take over the region they had previously existed in. The Byzantine Empire was reigning just to the west of the Caliphates and spanned through most of Europe and Southwestern Asia in its height. The Byzantines were well renowned for their longevity and new technologies. The Byzantine Empire also had a functioning monarchy, but eventually fell in 1453 to the invading Ottoman armies.
Positives and Negative of Interconnection
Some positive results of interconnection include;
increased trade
increased spread of religion, culture, and the Islamic Empire
developing the first well-functioning, completely religion based system of life
Some negatives of interconnection include;
the conquering of other cultures/religions
conflict which can interrupt trade routes and thus governmental functionings