25 - The Mad Caliph

The Fatimid Caliphate reached its height under the rule of al-Hakim, known in Western history as "The Mad Caliph."  Jews, Christians and Sunnis felt the harsh nature of his oppression, while a new religion developed with him as a god.  But the sciences and arts also reached a peak during his reign.  Al-Hakim remains a controversial, but important figure.