Final answer:
Islam originated on the Arabian Peninsula in the 7th century and spread rapidly after the death of the Prophet Muhammad, reaching Europe through Spain. Its spread beyond the Middle East occurred through conquest and trade, influencing local European cultures in art, architecture, and science.
Step-by-step explanation:
The origins of Islam can be traced back to the 7th century on the Arabian Peninsula. Islam was founded by the Prophet Muhammad in the city of Mecca, building upon the religious traditions of Judaism and Christianity. After Muhammad's death, Islam spread rapidly through military conquests and trade, extending across North Africa, into the Iberian Peninsula, and further into Europe. This resulted in the establishment of Islamic rule in regions like Spain until the Reconquista in 1492. The diffusion of Islam had profound impacts on Europe with the Islamic culture influencing local art, architecture, and sciences.
Islam spread beyond the Middle East primarily through conquest and trade. Significant military campaigns across North Africa and into Europe, particularly the invasion of the Iberian Peninsula by the Moors in 711 C.E., facilitated the spread of Islam. Invigorated commerce along trade routes also played a key role, allowing for the dissemination of Islamic beliefs and culture. The exchange of goods, ideas, and technology fostered economic growth and socio-cultural integration across different regions.
As Islam spread, it profoundly affected the social, economic, and cultural fabric of the regions it reached. In Europe, particularly in Spain, the Islamic rule introduced advancements in science, philosophy, agriculture, and architecture. Despite some resistance and eventual expulsion, Islamic influences are still evident in European culture. The trade and interaction between Muslim and non-Muslim communities enriched local economies and brought about cultural exchanges that shaped European civilization in various ways.