Jamal al-Din al-Afghani (1838-1897) was a prominent Islamic thinker and political activist known for his efforts to promote Islamic unity and reform. Born in Afghanistan, he traveled extensively throughout the Middle East and Europe, engaging with various political and philosophical ideas. Al-Afghani advocated for modernization in the Muslim world and emphasized the importance of education and political awareness. He is often associated with the Pan-Islamism movement, which sought to unite Muslims globally against colonialism and foreign influence. Al-Afghani's writings and speeches inspired many leaders and intellectuals, contributing to the rise of nationalist movements in the Islamic world during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.