The Arab World Thought of It

The amazing contributions from the Arab world from ancient times to today.

This colorful, inviting book is a celebration of the innovations and achievements of the Arab peoples from 22 countries in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Author Saima S. Hussain, who was raised in Saudi Arabia and lived in Pakistan, presents the contributions of the Arab peoples in such fields as Astronomy, Medicine, Architecture, Food, Education, and Art. Many of the inventions will no doubt be familiar to young readers: yogurt, carpets, Arabic numerals, etc. But they may be surprised to discover the other ways in which our lives have been shaped by the Arab peoples.

Readers will learn that the scalpel was the invention of a physician named Qasim al-Zahwari, who lived in the first century CE; that public libraries and centers of higher learning were first established in the Arab countries, that the very first camera was an Arab invention; and that the original name for many stars is in Arabic because they were discovered by Arab astronomers. This book also highlights the contributions made by Arab women, including the first women’s shelter. Finally, a look at the booming cities, progressive techniques used in oil production, and amazing feats in modern engineering and architecture complete the picture of the many ways the people of this region have changed, and continue to change, the world.

This sixth book in the We Thought of It series will engage readers with its stunning photographs and simple but fascinating text. And as a first step in researching the peoples and history of the Arab world, it comes with maps, a timeline, an index, and suggestions for further reading.

Previous titles in this popular series:
Africans Thought of It
The Chinese Thought of It
The Inuit Thought of It
Latin Americans Thought of It.
A Native American Thought of It