7th century facts for kids
| Millennium: | 1st millennium |
|---|---|
| Centuries: | 6th century · 7th century · 8th century |
| Decades: | 600s 610s 620s 630s 640s 650s 660s 670s 680s 690s |
| Categories: | Births – Deaths Establishments – Disestablishments |
The 7th century was a time of big changes around the world. It lasted for 100 years, from 601 to 700. During this century, new empires grew, and old ones changed. People explored new ideas, and different cultures met each other. It was a period when many important events shaped the future of continents like Asia, Africa, and Europe.
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The Rise of Islam
One of the most important events of the 7th century was the beginning and spread of Islam. This new religion started in Arabia with the Prophet Muhammad. His teachings quickly united many tribes in the Arabian Peninsula.
After Muhammad's death, his followers, called Muslims, began to expand their lands. They created a large empire known as the Rashidun Caliphate. This empire grew very fast, taking over lands from the Byzantine Empire and the Sasanian Empire.
By the end of the century, the Islamic empire stretched from North Africa to Central Asia. This expansion led to new trade routes and the sharing of knowledge between different cultures.
Empires in Asia
China's Golden Age: The Tang Dynasty
In China, the Tang Dynasty began in 618. This was a very powerful and successful time for China. The Tang Dynasty was known for its strong government, beautiful art, and new inventions.
The capital city, Chang'an (modern-day Xi'an), was one of the largest and most diverse cities in the world. People from many different countries came there to trade and learn. Poetry, painting, and music all thrived during this period. The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, built in 652, is an example of the amazing architecture from this time.
Japan's Asuka Period
In Japan, the 7th century was part of the Asuka period. During this time, Japan learned a lot from China and Korea. They adopted new ideas about government, writing, and art.
Buddhism also became very popular in Japan during the Asuka period. Many temples were built, and Buddhist art flourished. This period helped shape Japanese culture for centuries to come.
Europe and the Byzantine Empire
The Byzantine Empire
The Byzantine Empire (also known as the Eastern Roman Empire) was still a major power in the 7th century. Its capital was Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). However, the empire faced many challenges.
It fought long wars with the Sasanian Empire and later with the expanding Islamic caliphate. These wars caused the empire to lose a lot of its land in the Middle East and North Africa. Despite these losses, the Byzantine Empire remained an important center of culture and learning.
Anglo-Saxon England
In Britain, the 7th century was a time when several Anglo-Saxon kingdoms were developing. These kingdoms often fought each other for control. Christianity also spread across England during this century, replacing older pagan beliefs.
Important archaeological finds, like the Sutton Hoo helmet, show us what life was like for the Anglo-Saxon kings and warriors during this period. These finds help us understand their rich culture and craftsmanship.
Related pages
Images for kids
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Eastern Hemisphere at the beginning of the 7th century.
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Eastern Hemisphere at the end of the 7th century.
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Pages of a late 7th century Quran.
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An Anglo-Saxon helmet found at Sutton Hoo, probably belonging to Rædwald of East Anglia circa 625.
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The Tang dynasty Giant Wild Goose Pagoda of Chang'an, built in 652, in modern-day Xi'an, China.
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See also
In Spanish: Siglo VII para niños
