Host Majid and guest Muttaqi Ismail discuss recent US enforcement actions—ICE and Border Patrol raids, the killing in Minneapolis, and community reactions—placing these events in the context of immigrant communities, politics, and public protest. They also cover how social media, particularly TikTok, and shifting narratives are changing grassroots activism. The conversation broadens to the global picture: growing skepticism about a rules-based international order, interventions from the US in pl...
Feb 09, 2026•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 142
In this episode of the Islamic History Podcast, we explore the Umayyad Caliphate’s growing instability during 121–122 AH. From failed Byzantine campaigns to major rebellions in Iraq and North Africa, the empire's reliance on Syrian troops reaches a breaking point.
Jan 12, 2026•1 hr 41 min•Season 11Ep. 1
Despite fleeting military victories, internal cracks deepen in the Umayyad Caliphate as unjust taxes, tribal rivalries, and the rise of the Mawali set the stage for the empire’s inevitable downfall.
Jan 01, 2026•58 min
Bonus episode about the history of the Caliphate.
Dec 29, 2025•12 min•Ep. 141
In this episode, we explore the fragile balance of power during the later years of the Umayyad Caliphate under Caliph Hisham ibn Abdul Malik. Between 112–114 AH (731–733 CE), the empire faced crushing defeats on nearly every frontier. Yet Hisham refused to abandon his policy of ceaseless expansion. Temporary truces bought the Caliphate breathing room, but soon the armies were back in motion—sometimes roaring, sometimes limping—toward new campaigns. From 115–120 AH, the Umayyads managed a partial...
Aug 25, 2025•30 min•Ep. 140
In this episode of the Umayyad Caliphate, we continue our exploration of Caliph Hisham ibn Abdul Malik’s reign as the Umayyad Caliphate faces mounting crises across its vast empire. The year is 110 AH (728 CE), and the empire’s edges are on fire. In the Caucasus, Maslamah ibn Abdul Malik leads a grueling campaign against the Khazar Khaganate through the treacherous Darial Pass. Despite claiming victory, his retreat is chaotic, marked by ambushes, torrential rain, and widespread exhaustion. Meanw...
May 27, 2025•21 min•Ep. 138
Enjoy this promotional episode from The Umayyad Caliphate Season 4. Subscribe via Patreon , Apple Podcasts , Podbean , or Spotify .
Apr 28, 2025•20 min
In this special recap episode, we revisit the grand saga of the Mughal Empire—its rise, zenith, and eventual decline. From Babur’s bold conquests to Aurangzeb’s vast reign, we reflect on the emperors, battles, culture, and legacies that shaped South Asia’s history. Join us as we connect the threads of this epic journey and set the stage for what’s next. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-12".
Mar 24, 2025•41 min•Season 10Ep. 12
In this episode, we delve into the dramatic fall of Bahadur Shah II, the last Mughal emperor. Discover how the 1857 Revolt sealed his fate, leading to his deposition and exile to Rangoon. We explore the end of a dynasty that once ruled vast territories, marking the twilight of Mughal power and the dawn of British dominance in India. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-11".
Mar 17, 2025•37 min•Season 10Ep. 11
Explore how rising racism among British officials and the East India Company shaped colonial policies and strained relations with Indian sepoys. This episode delves into the deepening divide, fueled by prejudice and power, that set the stage for rebellion and resistance. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-10".
Mar 10, 2025•33 min•Season 10Ep. 10
In the early 1800s, the Mughal emperor was little more than a figurehead under East India Company rule. This episode unpacks how the Company tightened its grip on Delhi, controlled imperial authority, and set the stage for the empire’s final decline, shaping the future of British rule in India. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-9"
Mar 03, 2025•26 min•Season 10Ep. 9
In this episode, we dive into the brutal rise and fall of Ghulam Qadir, the Rohilla chieftain who seized Delhi in 1788, humiliated the Mughal court, and infamously blinded Emperor Shah Alam II. A tale of betrayal, vengeance, and imperial decline—this is the shocking story of one of the Mughal Empire’s darkest chapters. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-8"
Feb 24, 2025•30 min•Season 10Ep. 8
Explore the life of Mirza Najaf, a formidable Persian mercenary in the Mughal era. From his strategic prowess on the battlefield to his influence in shaping Mughal politics, this episode delves into the legacy of a warrior who bridged cultures and left an indelible mark on Indian history. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-7"
Feb 17, 2025•27 min•Season 10Ep. 7
In this episode, we uncover the brief and bizarre reign of Emperor Shah Jahan II, who ascended the Mughal throne in absentia after his father’s assassination. Overshadowed by court intrigue and swiftly dethroned, his story is a testament to the empire’s turbulent decline. Tune in for this forgotten chapter of history! Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-6"
Feb 10, 2025•32 min•Season 10Ep. 6
In this episode, we uncover the tumultuous rise of Imad ul Mulk, the Mughal Grand Vizier who played a pivotal role in the empire’s decline. From court intrigues to his betrayal of the emperor, discover how his ruthless ambition reshaped Mughal politics and hastened the empire’s fragmentation. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-5"
Feb 03, 2025•30 min•Season 10Ep. 5
Nizam-ul-Mulk, also known as Asaf Jah I, rose to prominence as a skilled administrator and military commander under the Mughal Empire before founding the Hyderabad State in 1724. Disillusioned by the weakening Mughal central authority, he established an independent dominion in the Deccan, leveraging his strategic acumen and strong support among local elites. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-4"...
Jan 27, 2025•25 min•Ep. 124
Ahmad Shah Durrani, also known as the "Father of Modern Afghanistan," rose to power in 1747 after uniting various Afghan tribes following the collapse of the Persian Safavid Empire. As the founder of the Durrani Empire, he leveraged his military prowess and strategic alliances to expand his rule across Afghanistan, parts of modern-day Pakistan, and northern India. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-3"...
Jan 20, 2025•27 min•Season 10Ep. 3
Nader Shah, provoked by Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah’s failure to address Afghan incursions that disrupted Persian trade routes, an opportunity to exploit the weakened empire and expand his power. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-2"
Jan 13, 2025•24 min•Season 10Ep. 2
In this episode, we discuss Emperor Muhammad Shah Rangeela. His reign (1719–1748) is often remembered for its indulgence in luxury and neglect of governance. Known as the "playboy emperor," he prioritized personal pleasures, art, and music over the pressing political and military challenges of the Mughal Empire. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-1"
Jan 06, 2025•26 min•Season 10Ep. 1
Season 10, the final chapter in the Mughal saga, is here. Want to see my notes for this episode? Join us on Telegram and search for "10-0"
Dec 30, 2024•19 min•Ep. 123
This is an interview I did recently with Sister Mariya from the Muslim Mum YouTube channel. In this episode, we discuss my background, the history of black Muslims in the United States, and what to make of a new Trump presidency.
Nov 18, 2024•1 hr 57 min•Ep. 122
Discussing the upcoming elections with Majid Hussein, the Muslim Podcaster.
Nov 04, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 121
I sit down with Imam Marc Manley of Middle Ground Islamic Center in southern California. We talk about his journey to acquire Islamic knowledge, the problem with how we're taught Arabic, and the moral decay of modern pop music, especially hip-hop. Visit his blog imammarc.com and subscribe to his podcast Middle Ground Podcast
Oct 28, 2024•59 min
Sudanese-American Mazin Khalil explains the history and politics behind the current civil war in Sudan. Donate to the Sudanese American Physicians Association
Oct 21, 2024•1 hr 6 min
Discussing Islam in Black America with Atlanta-based activist and da'ee, Bilal Stroud. Support Bilal's dawah efforts here. https://gofund.me/d5428959
Sep 23, 2024•1 hr 3 min
I sit down with Br. Majid Hussein from the Muslim Podcast to discuss the recent anti-Muslim riots in the UK.
Aug 20, 2024•1 hr 28 min•Ep. 120
A look into various Islamic contributions to science and culture.
Jul 22, 2024•32 min•Ep. 119
Who is the Israel lobby?
May 13, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 118
An interview with the Islamic Vibez Podcast
May 09, 2024•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 117
Did the Palestinians ever truly want peace?
Apr 29, 2024•51 min•Ep. 116
