Top image: AI representation of Hadi Sultan of the Abbasid Caliphate.

In the 8th-century Middle East, the rise of the Abbasids marked a significant chapter in Islamic history. Seizing control of the vast Islamic Caliphate, the Abbasids held sway for five centuries, overseeing a period often celebrated as Islam's 'golden age.' This era was characterized by military dominance, city-building, scholarly achievements, and technological innovations. The narrative unfolds from the death of Prophet Muhammad in 632 AD, through the triumphs and tribulations of the early caliphs, to the emergence of the Abbasids in 747.

A pivotal moment arises when Abu Muslim, a general in eastern Khorasan, launches a rebellion, brandishing the black banners of the Hashemites. The decisive Battle of Zab River in 750 sees the fall of the Umayyads and the rise of the Abbasid Caliphate, culminating in the establishment of Baghdad as the capital under Caliph al-Mansur. The reign of Harun al-Rashid is lauded as a zenith, fostering cultural diversity, scholarly pursuits, and advancements in various fields. The Abbasids' legacy endures as a testament to a flourishing period in Islamic civilization, marked by intellectual vibrancy and cultural exchange along the Silk Roads.