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- Hazrat Usman bin Affan (RA) became the third Caliph of Islam on 11th Dhul-Hijjah, 24 AH (644 CE).
- He continued the policies of Hazrat Umar (RA) and expanded the Islamic empire further.
- He appointed governors in different parts of the empire to manage the affairs of the state.
- The number of provinces during his tenure increased to twelve.
- He ordered the compilation of the Quran in the form of a book to preserve it from any changes or alterations.
- He ordered the construction of water wells and canals to provide water to the people living in the desert regions.
- He expanded the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims.
- He established a department to collect and distribute Zakat and other charities.
- He sent Muslim armies to conquer the neighboring territories, including the Byzantine Empire.
- The Muslims conquered Cyprus and Rhodes during his tenure.
- The Muslims also captured the cities of Tripoli, Barqa, and Alexandria in North Africa.
- The Battle of Siffin took place during his tenure between the armies of Ali (RA) and Muawiyah (RA).
- The siege of Constantinople by the Muslims began in 655 CE, but it was unsuccessful.
- The Kharijite rebellion broke out during his tenure, and it was suppressed by the Muslim armies.
- Hazrat Usman (RA) faced opposition from some Muslims who were unhappy with his policies.
- The most prominent of his opponents were Abdullah ibn Saba, Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr, and Amr ibn al-Aas.
- Some of the companions of the Prophet (SAW) also criticized his policies.
- Hazrat Usman (RA) faced several protests and demonstrations during his tenure.
- The people of Kufa and Egypt revolted against his governor’s oppressive policies.
- Hazrat Usman (RA) dismissed his governors in Kufa and Egypt, which further increased the resentment of the people.
- A group of rebels surrounded his house in Madinah and demanded that he resign as the Caliph.
- Hazrat Usman (RA) refused to resign and asked for time to address their grievances.
- The rebels broke into his house and assassinated him on 17th Dhul-Hijjah, 35 AH (656 CE).
- His assassination led to a civil war between the supporters of Ali (RA) and Muawiyah (RA).
- The Muslims eventually chose Ali (RA) as the fourth Caliph of Islam.
- Hazrat Usman (RA) was buried in Jannat al-Baqi in Madinah.
- His reign lasted for 12 years and six months.
- Hazrat Usman (RA) was known for his piety, generosity, and kindness.
- He was one of the ten companions of the Prophet (SAW) who were given the glad tidings of Paradise.
- Hazrat Usman (RA) is considered a righteous Caliph by Sunni Muslims, while some Shia Muslims have a negative view of his tenure as Caliph.
