The founder of Islam, Muhammad was an Arab prophet from Mecca whose revelations form the Qur'an, and he played a pivotal role in unifying Arab tribes and spreading the religion.

An ancient Greek philosopher whose work on various subjects, especially logic and political theory, had a profound influence on Ibn Khaldun's intellectual development and writings.

A Muslim philosopher from Al-Andalus known for his efforts to reconcile Aristotle's philosophies with Islamic teachings, prompting ongoing debates in intellectual circles contemporaneous with Ibn Khaldun.

A philosopher from Central Asia who, like Ibn Rushd, aimed to harmonize Aristotelian philosophy with Islamic principles, significantly impacting the intellectual landscape encountered by Ibn Khaldun.

Practitioners of Islamic mysticism who strive for a direct experience of God through ascetic practices, admired by Ibn Khaldun for their simplicity and virtue but critiqued for potential doctrinal excess.

Indigenous peoples of the Maghrib with diverse lifestyles and significant influence in Ibn Khaldun’s historical analysis, often contrasting with Arab populations in his works.

A dynasty of caliphs related to the Prophet Muhammad’s family, whose early rule is respected by Ibn Khaldun for cultural patronage and historical documentation, despite their eventual decline.