Muslims have been an intrinsic part of the American story from its earliest foundations. This narrative, often overlooked or misunderstood, is one of deep-rooted presence, enduring resilience, and profound contribution across every sector of national life. From the pursuit of knowledge (′ilm) to the establishment of justice (′adl) and the practice of charity (sadaqa), the universal values of the Islamic faith have provided a powerful source of motivation for these contributions. This report aims to correct historical oversights by providing a comprehensive, multi-generational overview of the American Muslim experience. It will explore how a community, guided by the timeless principles of the Quran and the Sunnah, has continually enriched the United States, cementing their place as an integral and indispensable part of the American fabric.
The historical record reveals a remarkable continuity of purpose, where faith has served not as a barrier to integration but as a catalyst for civic responsibility and innovation. This journey, from the past to the present, is a testament to the community’s unwavering commitment to its spiritual heritage while actively building a shared American future.
The presence of Muslims in North America dates back centuries, far earlier than is commonly acknowledged. Historical accounts reveal that Muslims were part of colonial expeditions as early as the 16th century.1 One of these early explorers was Mustafa Zemmouri, an African Muslim who, after being sold into slavery by the Portuguese, became one of the first Africans to explore the North American continent, traveling as far west as New Mexico.1
A more significant, yet tragically obscured, history lies in the transatlantic slave trade. Scholars estimate that between 15% to 30% of the enslaved Africans brought to the New World were Muslim, with some sources suggesting as much as 40% came from predominantly Muslim areas of West Africa.10 Despite overwhelming obstacles and forced conversion to Christianity, many of these individuals preserved their Islamic identity and religious practices.1
Among the most remarkable figures from this period was Omar Ibn Said, a West African scholar who was captured and enslaved in the early 19th century.10 He maintained his faith and literacy, leaving behind an autobiography and other documents written in Arabic that are now part of the Library of Congress collection.10 These written accounts, often containing Quranic verses that subtly condemned slavery, served as a powerful form of resistance and identity preservation.1 Other enslaved Muslims, such as Bilali Mohammad and Lamine Kebe, also left behind Arabic-language letters and documents, strategically using their literacy to communicate with one another and subvert the dehumanizing narratives of their enslavers.1
This presence of literate individuals among the enslaved population directly challenged the racist ideology that Black people were intellectually inferior and fit only for physical labor.10 By leaving a written record, these Muslim men were literally “writing themselves into existence” and affirming their humanity, a profound act of defiance against a system designed to strip them of their personhood.10 The deliberate anglicization of their names and the erasure of their Muslim identity by slaveholders were systematic attempts to reduce them to chattel, but their faith provided a foundation for their resistance.10
Following this early presence, a new wave of Muslim immigration began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These immigrants came from regions including the Ottoman Empire (Balkans), Greater Syria, and South Asia, settling in industrial hubs and agricultural centers across the United States.11 As these communities took root, they began establishing the first Islamic associations and purpose-built mosques.
The first documented communal prayer in America took place in Ross, North Dakota, in 1900.11 The first known mosque was reportedly founded by Albanian Muslims in Biddeford, Maine, in 1915 11, although the first purpose-built structure is often cited as the Highland Park Mosque in Detroit, Michigan, which opened in 1921 near a Ford Motor Company plant that employed hundreds of Arab American men.12 This was followed by the Mother Mosque of America, built in 1934 by a Syrian-Lebanese community in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.12
These mosques and Islamic associations were more than just places of worship; they were essential social and spiritual hubs that provided a vital sense of community for new immigrants. They helped preserve faith and culture, serving as centers for learning and solidarity during a period of rising assimilation.11
The Islamic faith was a consistent source of strength and resilience for these early Muslims. Their stories demonstrate how belief sustained them under extreme hardship. Yarrow Mamout, an enslaved Muslim from Guinea, provides a powerful example. Using his skills in brick-making and other trades, Mamout earned his own money and eventually purchased his freedom in 1807 after 44 years of enslavement.1 He became a successful entrepreneur and homeowner in Washington, D.C., where he was known to walk the streets singing praises to Allah.1 His life story, documented in a portrait by the renowned artist Charles Willson Peale, is a remarkable testament to the power of faith and perseverance in the face of profound injustice.1
Muslims have served in all branches of the United States Armed Forces and in every major armed conflict in the nation’s history, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to American security and values.14 This history of patriotism dates back to the War of 1812, where Bilali Muhammad, an enslaved Muslim from Guinea, led a group of 80 other Muslim men to defend Georgia’s Sapelo Island from a British attack.14
During the Civil War, an estimated 291 Muslims fought on the American side.14 One of the most notable was Nicholas Said, a world-traveler who was kidnapped and enslaved as a teenager.15 After gaining his freedom, he enlisted in the 55th Massachusetts Colored Regiment and rose to the rank of sergeant.14 Following the war, he contributed to the Reconstruction era by establishing schools for Black children in the South.15 Another notable contribution came from Abdullah Igram, a World War II veteran, who successfully campaigned for Islam to be an option on servicemembers’ religious identification tags.14
This legacy of service continues today. Humayun Khan, a U.S. Army Captain born to Pakistani parents, was killed by a car bomb in Iraq in 2004 while saving the lives of his fellow soldiers.14 His family’s public remarks brought attention to the sacrifices of Muslim Americans in the military, providing a modern face to a history of service that has often been overlooked.14 The long history of Muslim military service presents a powerful counter-narrative to the post-9/11 rhetoric that has questioned their loyalty. It highlights the community’s resilience and unwavering commitment to the nation, even as they have faced suspicion and discrimination.
The last two decades have seen a significant increase in the political representation of American Muslims, marking a new chapter of civic participation. In 2006, Keith Ellison became the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Congress, a milestone that was soon followed by the election of André Carson.16 In 2019, Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib made history as the first two Muslim women to serve in Congress.16 As of 2025, five Muslims have been elected to Congress, demonstrating a clear upward trajectory in political influence.16
Muslims are also making their mark in the judiciary and at the local level. Zahid Quraishi, a U.S. Army veteran who served two tours in Iraq, was confirmed as the first Muslim Article III federal judge in the United States in 2021.3 Other pioneers include Lina Khan, who was appointed the youngest-ever Chair of the Federal Trade Commission at age 32 in 2021.3 At the local level, figures like Bill Bazzi, the first Arab American and Muslim mayor of Dearborn Heights, Michigan 3, Amer Ghalib, the first Muslim mayor of Hamtramck, Michigan 3, and Deqa Dhalac, the first Somali American mayor in the United States 3, are reshaping the political landscape and demonstrating the community’s engagement at every level of government.
Black Muslims have played a pivotal role in the American civil rights movement, using their faith to fuel a quest for justice and equality.17 Two figures stand out: Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X.17 Muhammad Ali transcended sports to become a global human rights ambassador, using his immense platform to challenge racism, oppose the Vietnam War, and advocate for social justice.19 He was a visible figure of the Black Power movement and became a cultural touchstone for Black America, even as he was branded a traitor and his boxing license was suspended for his defiance.19
Malcolm X’s journey is a profound example of how the core teachings of Islam can bring about a radical personal and social transformation.22 After his pilgrimage to Mecca in 1964, he abandoned the racial separatism he had previously advocated for, having witnessed Muslims of all colors, from “blue-eyed blonds to black-skinned Africans,” united in prayer and devotion.23 He wrote in a letter home that this experience had “forced me to rearrange much of my thought-patterns” and convinced him that integration and human brotherhood were not only possible but necessary.22 His spiritual rebirth during the Hajj had a powerful impact on his political and social thought, demonstrating how a private act of worship can be a catalyst for public good.
The contributions of American Muslims to science and medicine are rooted in a rich historical legacy that dates back to the Islamic Golden Age. During this period, Muslim scholars and physicians laid the foundations for modern medicine, developing concepts such as medical ethics and licensing examinations centuries before their Western counterparts.26 Figures like Al-Razi and Ibn Sina authored foundational medical texts that were used in European schools for centuries.26
Today, American Muslim physicians and scientists are continuing this tradition of innovation and service. Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, an Iraqi American pediatrician, became a national hero when she courageously exposed the lead poisoning crisis in Flint, Michigan.3 Her research and advocacy were instrumental in saving thousands of residents from further exposure to contaminated water, demonstrating a deep commitment to public health.4
Other notable contributions include Dr. Mark S. Humayun, an ophthalmologist who co-developed the Argus II retinal prosthesis, the first FDA-approved implanted electronic device to restore functional vision in blind patients.27 The innovation, which he developed over 25 years, was inspired by his grandmother, who became blind from diabetic retinopathy.27 Other pioneers include Dr. Elias Zerhouni, an Algerian American scientist, who served as the Director of the National Institutes of Health 4, and Dr. Hunein Maassab, a Syrian American who invented the FluMist influenza vaccine.4 Dr. Rana El Kaliouby, an Egyptian-American scientist, has pioneered technology to assist individuals with autism by developing tools that help them read and respond to facial expressions.4 Nobel laureates like Ahmed Zewail and Aziz Sancar have also made groundbreaking discoveries in chemistry.28 This consistent trend of Muslims excelling in science and medicine is a direct manifestation of the Islamic emphasis on the pursuit of knowledge (′ilm) as a path to understanding and appreciating the Creator’s handiwork.
Muslim Americans are uniquely represented in STEM fields, with 24% holding a STEM degree compared to 18% of the general U.S. population.5 This disproportionate representation is fueled in part by the steady immigration of highly educated professionals.5 More than half of all adult Muslims in the U.S. were born in another country, in contrast to only 17% of Christians.30 This influx of talent has helped fill critical skills gaps and drive American innovation.5
The pursuit of knowledge is a core principle in Islam, and the achievements of these professionals are a fulfillment of this religious mandate. They are not merely contributing to the economy; they are embodying their faith’s values through their work, enriching the scientific and technological landscape of the nation in the process.
The economic contributions of American Muslims are a powerful force, with an estimated 200,000 Muslim-owned small businesses operating across diverse sectors.31 These businesses, from local restaurants to professional services, serve as vital anchors in their communities. The halal food sector alone is a significant economic engine, with the U.S. market valued at over $100 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $226 billion by 2033.32 The growth of this market is driven not only by the expanding Muslim population but also by non-Muslim consumers who are drawn to the ethical sourcing and quality standards of halal products.32
Beyond small businesses, Muslim entrepreneurs have founded and led some of America’s most recognizable companies. Shahid Khan, a Pakistani immigrant who arrived in the U.S. with just $500, built Flex-N-Gate into a global automotive parts supplier and went on to purchase the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL team.33 Tariq Farid, a Pakistani American, founded Edible Arrangements 35, and Hamdi Ulukaya, a Turkish immigrant, founded Chobani, a company known for its ethical business practices and support for refugee employees.35 Jawed Karim, a co-founder of YouTube, is another prominent example of a Muslim entrepreneur who has fundamentally reshaped a global industry.29
A new generation of Muslim founders is now building a self-sustaining ecosystem. Venture capital firms like Alif Network and Salam.Fund are specifically focused on backing Muslim founders in emerging tech, providing capital, community, and connections to help them succeed.37 This progression, from local businesses to global enterprises, reflects the Islamic tradition of collective responsibility, moving beyond individual success to empower the broader community.
Philanthropy is a cornerstone of the Islamic faith, encapsulated in the principles of Zakat (obligatory almsgiving), Sadaqa (voluntary charity), and Waqf (charitable endowment).39 This spirit of generosity has manifested in numerous ways in American Muslim communities. Mosques and community centers serve as distribution points for Zakat funds, helping those in need with financial assistance, food, and shelter.40 Historically, enslaved Muslims were known to save small quantities of rice and sugar to create a
Saraka cake for children, demonstrating the practice of charity even under extreme hardship.41
Modern Muslim philanthropy is now becoming more strategic. The Waraich Family Fund, for example, is working to uplift Muslim-led nonprofits and increase their access to funding from larger foundations.41 This represents a maturation of the community’s economic power, which is being channeled to build a sustainable infrastructure for social good that benefits not only the Muslim community but all of society.
American culture has been enriched by the contributions of Muslims in the arts, literature, and popular culture. Food, in particular, has become a powerful cultural bridge. Festivals like Eid are now celebrated in many American cities, and halal food has moved from a niche market to the mainstream.32 The journey of The Halal Guys, which began as a simple food cart in New York City and grew into a nationwide fast-casual empire, is a perfect example of how a cultural offering can achieve massive mainstream appeal, demonstrating the universal attraction of its flavors and authenticity.32
High-profile Muslim athletes and entertainers have served as influential cultural ambassadors, challenging stereotypes and raising the community’s visibility.42 Icons like Muhammad Ali and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar used their platforms to educate non-Muslims about Islam and champion civil rights, profoundly changing perceptions of Muslims in America.42 Their success and public embrace of their faith demonstrated that one could be both a proud American and a devout Muslim.42
A new generation of comedians and actors is now using their art to explore complex social issues. Hasan Minhaj, for example, used his show Patriot Act to provide in-depth political commentary on topics ranging from student debt to U.S. foreign policy, offering a fresh and nuanced perspective that resonates with a broad audience.43 Similarly, musicians have woven their faith into their art. Jazz artists like Art Blakey and Yusuf Lateef were inspired by their conversion to Islam.45 In the world of hip-hop, artists like Mos Def and Lupe Fiasco have woven Arabic words and Islamic themes of God and unity into their lyrics, using their platform to reach a wide American audience that may otherwise be unfamiliar with Islam.46 The first half of the Islamic testimony of faith, the Shahada, was even featured in a Grammy-winning song by the Muslim artist Everlast.46
Muslim writers have also played a significant role. Figures like Gibran Khalil Gibran, a member of the New York Pen League, became one of America’s most popular authors, and his work inspired other writers, musicians, and artists.47 His universal themes led to the creation of the Khalil Gibran Memorial Poetry Garden in Washington, D.C., dedicated in his honor.47 More recently, writers like Naomi Shihab Nye and Mohja Kahf have explored themes of identity, belonging, and the Muslim American experience, contributing to a more nuanced and critical body of literature.18
Beyond their role as places of worship, mosques and Islamic centers serve as dynamic hubs for social welfare and community service. This is a practical manifestation of Islamic values, such as the obligation to care for the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. The Plano Masjid’s Community Assistance Program, for example, provides food, financial aid, and health services to both Muslims and non-Muslims in their area, using Zakat and Sadaqa funds to meet basic needs.40 Similarly, the Islamic Society of Baltimore operates a free health clinic for uninsured individuals and offers counseling, funeral services, and special needs support in partnership with the organization MUHSEN (Muslims Understanding and Helping Special Education Needs).50 These efforts showcase how faith inspires a deep sense of civic responsibility and a commitment to the well-being of the wider community.
Muslim Americans are actively involved in building bridges with other faith communities through interfaith dialogue. Organizations like the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) have partnered with national Baptist and Catholic organizations to foster mutual respect and understanding.51 These initiatives create a forum for open discussion and collaboration on issues of common concern, promoting a shared vision of a just and compassionate society.7
Furthermore, Muslim organizations are focused on empowering the next generation of civic leaders. The American Muslim Civic Leadership Initiative (AMCLI) trains leaders to participate in the public square and work toward social change, helping to move the community from a reactive to a proactive role in shaping American democracy.52 The program brings together a diverse group of Muslim Americans to learn and grow, creating a network of leaders who will be a source of guidance for generations to come.52
In the face of systemic challenges, Muslim civil rights organizations have played a crucial role in protecting civil liberties and advocating for justice.18 The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has been at the forefront of this work, focusing on voter registration, grassroots organizing, and policy advocacy.8 The organization’s civil rights actions and educational campaigns are essential in combating discrimination and promoting the rights of American Muslims.8 Landmark legal battles, such as
Tanvir v. Tanzin, have challenged government policies, including the abuse of the No-Fly List, to prevent the coercion of Muslims into becoming informants.54
Despite their profound contributions, Muslim Americans have faced significant challenges. Islamophobia, often fueled by stereotypes and institutionalized in laws and policies, has been a persistent reality.9 The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) reported a record high of 8,658 complaints of anti-Islam and anti-Arab incidents in 2024, the highest number since the organization began tracking data in 1996.9
Discrimination is also evident in employment, with a 2013 study finding that Muslim job applicants received 13% fewer callbacks than Christians for identical positions, with the disparity being much greater in areas with a high fraction of Republican voters.55 Muslim women who wear the hijab face a unique intersectional form of discrimination, as they are visibly identifiable and have been targeted in employment, legal settings, and public spaces since 9/11.56 The reclassification of Islam as a political ideology rather than a bona fide religion has also been used to justify discriminatory acts, such as opposing mosque constructions and denying religious accommodations.56 Hate crimes against Muslims have risen significantly, with incidents ranging from verbal assaults to physical violence and arson attacks on mosques.9
In the face of these challenges, the American Muslim community has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Their response has been one of civic maturation and strategic, faith-based resistance. Rather than withdrawing, they have engaged more deeply in the civic process, turning adversity into an opportunity for growth and advocacy. This proactive stance, from founding civil rights organizations to training new leaders, is a testament to the community’s commitment to building a better America for everyone.
The future of American Muslims is poised to be one of increasing influence and contribution, a trajectory supported by a unique demographic profile. According to a 2023-24 Pew Research Center study, Muslims are significantly younger than the overall U.S. population, with roughly one-third of Muslim adults aged 18 to 29, compared to only 14% of Christians.30 This youthful population is also highly educated, with 44% of Muslim adults being college graduates, a higher percentage than Christians or religiously unaffiliated Americans.30
The community is also incredibly diverse, with no single racial or ethnic group forming a majority.30 The population is comprised of approximately 30% White, 30% Asian, 20% Black, 11% Hispanic, and 8% of other races, a diversity that reflects the global nature of Islam.30 More than half of American Muslims were born in another country, in contrast to only 17% of Christians, which contributes to a rich multicultural tapestry.30 This demographic profile—young, educated, and diverse—is a powerful engine for innovation, social change, and civic leadership, providing a strong foundation for a bright future.
| Demographic Characteristic | Muslim Adults (%) | All U.S. Adults (%) |
| Age 18-29 | 35% | 21% |
| Age 30-54 | 51% | 42% |
| Age 55+ | 14% | 36% |
| College Graduate | 44% | 36% |
| Postgraduate Degree | 26% | 14% |
| Foreign-born | 59% | 17% |
Data compiled from Pew Research Center’s 2023-24 Religious Landscape Study 30
The next generation of Muslim Americans is increasingly engaged in politics and social justice, with a 2020 study finding that 61% of young Muslims (aged 18-29) believe they have a responsibility to be politically involved, compared to 45% of the general Muslim population.5 This trend signals a growing commitment to shaping the nation’s future. The rise of new Muslim American leaders, innovators, and creatives is an ongoing process that promises to continue to enrich the country.
The enduring story of Muslims in America is one of continuous contribution, marked by a proud history and a bright future. From the earliest presence of enslaved Muslims to the first purpose-built mosques and the rising generation of political and cultural leaders, their journey has been guided by faith and defined by resilience. The community’s growing presence in STEM, business, arts, and politics, coupled with their strong commitment to philanthropy and interfaith relations, demonstrates a profound and active investment in the American project. The contributions of Muslim Americans are not just a part of the past; they are an integral force in shaping a more just, inclusive, and prosperous future for all.
Explore Islamic teachings on women's rewards in Paradise, including spouses, Houris' meaning, and scenarios for unmarried or multi-married women based… Read More
Explore the various types of martyrdom in Islam, including battlefield martyrs and those dying from plagues, diseases, or protecting faith,… Read More
Explore Islamic guidelines on intimacy during a wife's menstruation (Haiz) and post-natal bleeding (Nifas), including prohibitions, permissions before Ghusl, and… Read More
Explore Islamic evidences from Quran, Sunnah, and scholars proving Khidr (peace be upon him) has passed away, refuting claims of… Read More
Clarifying misconceptions, this article explores Islamic rulings on violence towards a disobedient wife. Drawing from Quran verses like Surah An-Nisa… Read More
Discover the Islamic ruling on bathing naked in privacy, backed by Quran and Hadith evidence. Permissible, but covering is more… Read More