The medieval Islamic world demonstrated remarkable advancements not only in literacy and urbanization but also in espionage, which was integral to governance. The Umayyad Caliphate prioritized postal services as a means of not just communication, but also intelligence collection. Spies were pivotal, often being disguised as letter carriers, and their role was crucial from the Rashidun Caliphate onwards. This culture of surveillance was pervasive, leading to extreme precautions in interactions, illustrating the intertwining of power and intelligence.
From the mail carrier who doubled as an informant to queens and singing-girls gathering secrets, the medieval Islamic world wove espionage into the fabric of power.
The mailman, in other words, was a spy. This highlights how communication networks were not just for correspondence but also pivotal for intelligence gathering.
The ruler ought to plant spies on his subjects and associates; eyes that spy on their whereabouts, especially if there is any doubt about them.
By the end of the seventh century, the expectation of espionage was so ubiquitous in Basra that groups of people would turn away any unknown face.
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