Muawiya I was the first Umayyad caliph, ruling from 661 to 680 CE. He was born in 602 CE in Mecca and was a member of the Umayyad clan. Muawiya served as the governor of Syria before becoming caliph, and he is known for establishing a strong administrative system and expanding the Islamic empire. His reign marked the beginning of the Umayyad dynasty, which lasted until 750 CE. Muawiya is also recognized for his military campaigns and efforts to consolidate power, including the establishment of a hereditary monarchy. His leadership significantly influenced the political landscape of the early Islamic world.