“The Truth About Christopher Columbus” is a very educative extract from Abdullah Hakim’ lecture.
In brief he explains why Islamic History is rarely a subject taught in schools. As well he demonstrates how cultural and intellectual genocide has been justified.
Why not?
So, why Islam is not given the right attention in History books? And this is despite the Islamic world being at the center of science, research and progress during the dark ages.
– First of all because History in Europe and America is Eurocentric, hence the system focuses on the glory (whether fabricated or not) of Europe.
– For example: it is said that Columbus discovered America. However his diary indicates that he got lost and thought he had found India.
– For Abdullah Hakim, we need to rethink how we present History and we should have what he calls a Mecca-centered history. Indeed our History as Muslims is based on our faith
– Secondly, what happened was not only a population’s genocide but an intellectual genocide.
– It is a fact that Columbus as well as the conquistadores and many other colonizers have destroyed countless artifacts and scriptures.
– In order to justify racism and oppression, one has to negate the intellectual existence of a civilization.
– As a result, the “other one” is seen as non-civilized.
– Hence the culture of the oppressor has to prevail.
Under those circumstances it is easier to rewrite the History in your favor. Therefore, we have a duty towards the future generation of Muslims.
It is bigger than just keeping track of science or invention throughout History.
Yes, more importantly, it is about our heritage: one faith that united and continues to unite very diverse human beings.
Let’s educate ourselves and be proud of our Islamic History.
History of Islamic Contributions to Science