No, the idea that Islam spread by forced conversions under the sword is a simplistic and largely discredited narrative; while cases of forced conversion did occur, they were rare and violated Islamic principles. The spread of Islam was a complex process driven more significantly by factors like dawah (invitation), trade, migration, and the influence of key figures, where the religion was adopted over time through a combination of spiritual appeal, pragmatic reasons, and socio-cultural integration. 

Primary factors in the spread of Islam

Dawah (invitation): The process of inviting others to Islam through patient and tolerant preaching was a central method.

Trade: Muslim merchants traveled along trade routes, sharing their faith, values, and way of life with non-Muslims in new regions.

Migration: Muslim communities who moved to new areas, whether as migrants, refugees, or even slaves, brought their religious knowledge and practices with them.

Influencers: The conversion of influential figures like social, political, or military leaders often drew their followers and subjects closer to Islam.

Social and political factors: In some cases, conversion was a pragmatic choice for social mobility, patronage, or to reduce taxes levied on non-Muslims.

Integration: Over long periods, the spread of Islam was also a socio-cultural process of diffusion and integration into a dominant Muslim civilization and its global networks.