UMAYYAD The first Islamic dynasty (661-750) which established once again the return to leadership roles of the pre-Islamic Arab elite, and the rejuvenation of tribal loyalties.The Umayyads were the descendants of Ummayya ibn Abdi sh-Shams, a member of the Quraysh family of Mecca The Umayyad caliphate created the foundation of a political structure. Though it was based on a religious institution, the umayyads tended to be seculer rulers by not fully participating in religious events. The architectural style of the umayyads was most distinct and are now famous such as their Dome of The Rock and Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. During their caliphate, the Umayyads extended their territory throughout west in Africa and the Iberian peninsula, also reaching some of northern India and the border of China. In 750 the Abbassids over threw the Umayyads over a religious dispute. Not in control any more, the Umayyads migrated to Muslim Spain where they reigned from 756 to 1031.