Assassination of Uthman

Quick Facts: Who was Assassination of Uthman?

Subject:

Assassination of Uthman

Known for:

Third Rashidun Caliph, assassinated in 656 CE amid political turmoil and accusations of nepotism.

Died:

656

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Uthman ibn Affan, the third Rashidun caliph, who ruled from 644 to 656, was assassinated at the end of a siege upon his house in 656. This was initially a protest but escalated into a siege following the death of a protester. The protesters-turned-rebels had demanded a new caliph, which Uthman refused. On 17 June 656 (35 AH) protestors set the house on fire, made their way inside, and killed him. The assassination of Uthman had a polarizing effect on the Ummah at the time.

Career & Major Achievements

Questions were raised not only regarding his character and policies but also the relationship between Muslims and the state, religious beliefs regarding rebellion and governance, and the qualifications of rulership in Islam. Following the deaths of Muhammad and the first caliph Abu Bakr (r. 632–634) in 632 and 634 respectively, Umar (r. 634–644) became the new caliph. Continuing the wars of conquest initiated by Abu Bakr, he brought about the almost complete collapse of Sasanian Persia.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The Byzantine Empire was restricted to Anatolia and central North Africa. The armies of the conquest were settled in the conquered areas. In Iraq, the garrison towns of Basra and Kufa were established for the purpose. Fustat was founded in Egypt. Due to significant Arab population in Syria, Arab Muslim conquerors of the region settled in the already existing towns.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 656: Passing & Historical Legacy — Assassination of Uthman passed away on 656, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Assassination of Uthman

True or False: “The primary catalyst for the initial protest against Uthman was a dispute over military pay (ata) and land distribution in conquered territories.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): While nepotism was a major factor, the underlying tension stemmed from the administration of newly acquired lands and revenue, which soldiers felt entitled to.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Talha ibn Ubayd Allah — Contemporary (Died in 656) (656): Prominent companion of Prophet Muhammad, known for generosity and military service.
• Uthman — Contemporary (Died in 656) (656): Third and longest-reigned Rashidun Caliph, known for standardizing the Quran.
• Zubayr ibn al-Awwam — Contemporary (Died in 656) (656): Prominent early Muslim commander, advisor, and political figure of the Rashidun Caliphate.
• Assata Shakur — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Black American activist, revolutionary, and fugitive known for her political militancy.
• Assia Djebar — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Pioneering Algerian feminist novelist celebrated for chronicling women's experiences.
• Assur — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Ancient Mesopotamian city, former capital of the Middle Assyrian and Neo-Assyrian Empires.
• 656 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 656

Frequently Asked Questions about Assassination of Uthman