Hisham ibn Abd al-Malik was an Umayyad caliph who ruled from 724 to 743 CE. He was the 10th caliph of the Umayyad dynasty and is known for his efforts to consolidate power and expand the empire. His reign saw significant military campaigns, particularly in North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, which helped to strengthen Umayyad control in these regions. Hisham's administration focused on economic development and infrastructure, including the construction of roads and cities. He also faced challenges, such as internal dissent and the rise of rival factions. Despite these issues, Hisham's rule is often regarded as a period of relative stability within the Umayyad caliphate.