Meccan trade prior to the rise of Islam (Ph.D. Thesis)

The thesis begins by offering a geographical perspective of the Arabian Peninsula. Further topics discussed include: the political situation in Arabia in the sixth century AD, a historical background of Mecca since the time of Qusayy, the Ilaf and its impact on Meccan trade, and the role of the sons of Abd Manaf in transforming Meccan trade. Later chapters include: an analysis of the strength of the Quraysh and relations with the Arabian tribes and external relations, a study of pre-Islamic markets with emphasis on those held in the Hijaz, in particular that of Ukaz, the Ka'bah and the inland trade routes of Arabia with special reference to the caravans. Commercial practices unique to Mecca are further elaborated, including topics such as monopolization, debt, partnership, usury, coinage and so on. The thesis also includes maps, a genealogical tree, and tables showing details of the pre-Islamic markets as portrayed in the sources.