Over the course of time, many Muslim reverts have done a lot to help their brethren all around the world. This documentary by BBC talks about the lives and works of three such British Muslims, who sacrificed a lot and contributed towards the benefit of humanity at large:
This documentary tells the little-known story of three English gentlemen who embraced Islam at a time when to be a Muslim was seen as being a traitor to your country. Through personal journeys of still surviving relatives, the programme looks at their achievements and how their legacy lives on today.
All of these three great men belonged to aristocratic families, and back in Victorian England, their name and reputation was unparalleled. Yet, they showed no fear of losing their power and prestige, and embraced Islam. No threats from haters and no boycotts from social gatherings could stop them.
- William Henry Quilliam: Commonly known as Abdullah Quilliam, he established England’s first masjid and Islamic centre in Liverpool.
- Rowland Allanson-Winn, 5th Baron Headley: Better known as Lord Headley, he was the founder-president of the British Muslim Society.
- Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall: A prolific author, Pickthall is well-known as the person responsible for, probably, the greatest and most appealing English translation of The Holy Quran.
The documentary does miss out some great names: Sir Archibald Hamilton, Lord Henry Stanley and even Faris Glubb, for instance. That said, for what it’s worth, this video is surely worth a watch for anyone who is interested in the history of Islam, especially with reference to Europe.
