Othman, also known as Uthman ibn Affan, was the third caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate and ruled from 644 to 656 CE. He was a companion of the Prophet Muhammad and played a significant role in the early expansion of Islam. Othman is best known for commissioning the compilation of the Quran, ensuring that the holy text was standardized and preserved. His leadership faced challenges, including internal dissent and accusations of nepotism, which ultimately led to his assassination in 656 CE. Othman's death marked a turning point in Islamic history, contributing to the rise of political factions and the eventual First Fitna, or civil war, within the Muslim community.