GT'er, good summary.
I have a few comments to make but I have a full day of prep for my upcoming week. I will write more if I have the chance.
As a whole, you are correct - but where my differences come into play is in the justifications for expanding the Islamic empire, and the intolerance of other religions and people.
Hazcat - knowing history and knowing what it MEANS are two different things. GT'er and I both know history. Our difference is as to what it means and how we back up our opinions.