Uthman ibn Affan was the third caliph of the Islamic community, serving from 644 to 656 CE. He was a companion of the Prophet Muhammad and played a significant role in the early expansion of Islam. Uthman is known for commissioning the compilation of the Quran, which helped standardize the text and preserve it for future generations. His leadership faced challenges, including internal dissent and accusations of favoritism towards his family, the Umayyad clan. Uthman's rule ended when he was assassinated, leading to a period of civil strife known as the First Fitna, which significantly impacted the early Islamic state.