Throughout the early Islamic world, trade and commerce played a significant role. Trading networks during this time covered most of the world including China, Africa, and Europe. The Islamic merchants used both coins (Dinar- gold coin and Dirham- silver coin) and paper currency (suftaja) in their business. The practice of paper currency was later adopted by the Europeans.
By winning elections and occupying seats in the government, members of the party influence public policy. Thus, contesting elections lies at the heart of a political party's function.
