Islamic Artillery

Gunpowder was invented in ancient China in the 9th century. By the 13th century, it had made its way to the Middle East. Soon after, gunpowder technology was adopted into Islamic armies and used proficiently in battle. These armies became known as the "Gunpowder Empires." They dominated the Middle East and spread Islam throughout the Old World. Gunpowder technology eventually spread to European cities and kingdoms, which also adopted the implement. Eventually, rifles and cannons became the predominant force on the battlefield. Gunpowder technology has had a significant impact on Islamic culture and way of life, for example, guns are fired into the air at some traditional Arab weddings. Moreover, the concept of holy wars or Jihads is prevalent in extremist Islamic culture. These Jihads tend to employ and have employed firearms and gunpowder. This is still relevant today as the shockwaves from the Global War on Terror and the ISIS Caliphate are still felt now.