The Banu Umayya, also known as the Umayyad dynasty, was a prominent ruling family in early Islamic history. They came to power after the Rashidun Caliphate and ruled from 661 to 750 CE. The Umayyads expanded the Islamic empire significantly, stretching from Spain in the west to India in the east, and established Damascus as their capital. The Umayyad caliphs were known for their administrative innovations and architectural achievements, including the construction of the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. However, their rule faced criticism for perceived secularism and favoritism towards Arab Muslims, leading to discontent and eventually their overthrow by the Abbasid revolution.