Contemporary events puzzle most of us because we have learnt a whitewashed version of history. Many of us could enumerate the shortcomings of Winston Churchill with great ease, but would struggle to provide an account of the rule of Muawiyah or Yazid. Many of us harbour a very romantic view of Muslim history. Unfortunately ISIS would feel right at home in many periods of our past. Alas, our community, for centuries, has been guilty of covering up mistakes and crimes, which has sadly lent legitimacy to groups like these. We need to step back and take stock.
Last modified: 3 February 2015
