Jamal al-Din al-Afghani

A prominent Islamic reformist and intellectual who advocated for pan-Islamic unity and modernization in the 19th century.

Jamal al-Din al-Afghani (1838–1897) was a visionary thinker who reshaped Islamic discourse during a period of colonial dominance. Born in Afghanistan, he traveled widely, using his writings and speeches to challenge Western imperialism and promote Islamic modernization. His seminal work, 'The Refutation of the Materialists', argued for a synthesis of Islamic principles with scientific progress. He founded journals like Al-Urwa al-Wuthqa to mobilize pan-Islamic solidarity against colonial powers. Read Britannica's overview.

Al-Afghani's ideas influenced leaders like Muhammad Abduh and inspired movements across the Middle East. He emphasized education, constitutionalism, and resistance to foreign control, framing Islam as compatible with modern governance. Though controversial, his legacy endures in contemporary debates about Islamic reform and cultural identity. His critiques of colonialism remain foundational in postcolonial studies.