The Need For Government

As the Arabian cities prospered, the old tribal governments were no longer sufficient. Arab was ruled by hundreds of sheiks, instead of one central government. They all shared the same language, culture, and religious beliefs, but because they did not share the same government, and were not united, it was difficult for them to defend themselves.

The Persian Empire, as well as the Byzantine Empire were both growing in strength and influence. Both of these Empires looked at Arab lands, and threatened to conquer them.