Forgotten Heroes of Islam: Why Doesn’t the Western World Teach About Them?

 

Forgotten Heroes of Islam: Why Doesn’t the Western World Teach About Them?

In Western schools, world history often revolves around Greek-Roman civilizations, the European Renaissance, and figures like Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, or Napoleon. But have we ever asked:
Where are the great heroes of the Islamic world in their history books?

Islam has produced remarkable figures who shaped the world in military, science, leadership, and ethics. Yet, many are forgotten, overlooked, or misrepresented by dominant Western historical narratives.



1. Examples of Forgotten Islamic Heroes

Here are some prominent Islamic figures rarely found in Western curricula:

  • Salahuddin Al-Ayyubi: The liberator of Jerusalem, known for his chivalry toward enemies.

  • Imam Shafi’i & Imam Hanafi: Founders of major schools of Islamic jurisprudence.

  • Muhammad Al-Fatih: The conqueror of Constantinople, marking a turning point for East and West.

  • Ibn Sina & Al-Khwarizmi: Pioneers of medicine and mathematics.

  • Nuruddin Zanki: The forerunner of resistance against the Crusaders, preceding Salahuddin.

These aren’t just Muslim heroes — they are global civilization builders.

2. Why Doesn’t the West Teach About Them?

Several reasons contribute to the exclusion of Islamic heroes from Western history:

  • Orientalism: A worldview that sees the East (Islam) as inferior or exotic.

  • Crusader-centric narratives: History is often told from Europe’s perspective, casting Muslims as the enemy.

  • Secularism and Islamophobia: Fear of Islamic resurgence leads to the erasure of its achievements.

  • Educational agenda: Curricula are tailored to reinforce Western identity, not historical fairness.

As a result, young generations — even in Muslim countries — grow up ignorant of these inspiring Islamic figures.

3. The Consequences of Erasing These Heroes

  • Loss of Muslim identity: Many Muslims are unaware of their own historical greatness.

  • Distorted historical view: The world sees only Western versions of "progress" and "civilization."

  • Inferiority complex: Muslims are seen — and see themselves — as having made little contribution to the world.

Yet history tells us that Muslims once led the world — not just followed it.

4. Time to Revive Their Names and Legacy

We cannot rely on the West to tell our history. Therefore:

  • Media, books, films, and Islamic curricula must highlight these figures.

  • Muslim youth must be encouraged to learn from and emulate them.

  • The world must be reminded that Islam is not only the past — it’s part of the future.

Conclusion: A Just History Starts with Balanced Perspective

The heroes of Islam were not just warriors, but scholars, visionaries, and guardians of justice. They are not threats, but contributors to humanity’s progress.

By rediscovering them, we are not only restoring history — we are rebuilding the dignity of Islamic civilization.

Lokasi: GWF8+Q6 Blodgett Mills, NY, Amerika Serikat

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