The Caliph (2016)

For nearly 13 centuries, from the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632 CE to the overthrow of the last Ottoman caliph in 1924, the Islamic world was governed by a caliph. The term “caliph,” derived from the Arabic word “Khalifa,” signifies a successor or deputy. These caliphs were considered the heirs to the Prophet Muhammad, entrusted with both religious and political authority.

In this epic three-part documentary series, produced in collaboration with Al Jazeera English, viewers are taken on a captivating journey through the rich history of the caliphate. The series sheds light on how the first caliphs of Islam built and expanded their empire, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

The story begins with the foundation of the caliphate. From the early days after the Prophet’s passing, the caliphs faced immense challenges. They navigated territorial expansion, internal strife, and theological debates. Their leadership shaped the course of history, influencing art, science, and culture across continents.

However, the term “caliph” has not always been revered. In June 2014, the militant group known as the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS) declared the establishment of a caliphate. Their leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, claimed the title of caliph, but this proclamation was widely rejected by the global Muslim community. ISIL’s attempt to appropriate this revered title cast a dark shadow over its historical significance.

The Caliph delves into the lives of these remarkable leaders, exploring their achievements, struggles, and legacies. Through captivating storytelling and expert analysis, the series provides a fascinating insight into the rise and fall of the caliphate—a title that spanned one of the greatest empires humanity has ever known.