Final answer:
The spread of Islam was propelled by conquests, trade routes, missionary work, and the adoption of shared customs, laws, and language, leading to a unified Islamic community.
Step-by-step explanation:
Religion played a vital role in the spread of Islam from its early days in the Arabian Peninsula throughout various regions of the world. The spread of Islam was facilitated through various means: conquests by Muslim rulers, trade routes, shared customs and laws, and missionary work by religious scholars. By establishing consistent Islamic institutions such as mosques, schools, and markets, Muslims created a sense of community and unity that transcended local cultures, encouraging the adoption of Islam. Trade was a significant contributor to Islam's spread; traders and merchants brought their beliefs along with them as they traveled along the Silk Roads and across the Sahara, reaching East and West Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. Shared language, namely Arabic, and common religious practices furthered social cohesion and trust among diverse populations, facilitating the integration and acceptance of Islamic customs.