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THE PRESENCE
OF ISLAM
IN THE 20TH
CENTURY
Many of the accepted Islamic religious and
cultural traditions were established between the 7th and 10th centuries, during
the classical period of Islamic history. However, Islamic culture continued to
develop as Islam spread into new regions and mixed with diverse cultures. The
19th-century occupation of most Muslim lands by European colonial powers was a
main turning point in Muslim history. The traditional Islamic systems of
governance, social organization, and education were undermined by the colonial
regimes. Nation-states with independent governments divided the Muslim community
along new ethnic and political lines.
further reading
These sources provide additional information on Islam.
Today about 1 billion Muslims are spread over 40 predominantly Muslim countries
and 5 continents, and their numbers are growing at a rate unmatched by that of
any other religion in the world. Despite the political and ethnic diversity of
Muslim countries, a core set of beliefs continues to provide the basis for a
shared identity and affinity among Muslims. Yet the radically different
political, economic, and cultural conditions under which contemporary Muslims
live make it difficult to identify what constitutes standard Islamic practice in
the modern world. Many contemporary Muslims draw on the historical legacy of
Islam as they confront the challenges of modern life. Islam is a significant,
growing, and dynamic presence in the world. Its modern expressions are as
diverse as the world in which Muslims live.
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