In just a few short years Muslim armies conquered what we call today the Middle East defeating the powerful Byzantine and Persian empires. This was in part a military conquest but the majority of the population were Christian with significant Jewish communities. They put up little resistance, in large parts because the new Muslim rulers were prepared to tolerate their religious beliefs, in return for accepting Muslim rule and paying taxes. No such toleration was on offer in Christian lands.

Caliphate: The Arab Conquest looks at how the new Muslim Caliphate emerged and expanded so rapidly. We talk to two respected British academics, Professor Hugh Kennedy of SOAS in London and Professor Chris Wickham of Oxford University. This is essential viewing to understand one of the key events in world history. An event which resonates into today's world.