12th - 14th Centuries

It was al-Idrisi that drew the first detailed scientific map of the world in the 12th century. He also wrote a book on the geography of the world called The Book of Roger, named after his patron, Roger the Second, the Norman King of Sicily.

Ibn Khaldun, a 14th century pioneer of history and sociology, wrote the famous Muqaddima (Introduction) one of the first detailed works on the philosophy of history. Ibn Khaldun was also known for his observations on human life and society.

Muslim sailors, merchants and explorers travelled far and wide. In the 14th century Ibn Battuta spent 28 years of his life travelling. His journeys took him from Morocco to China.

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