Explain the Hijrah and asses its significance for Islam

Moving to Medina was the most important event for Islam because it is when the Islamic Calendar began because the first Muslim community (umma) was formally formed and once in Medina Mohammad was free to preach openly.  Once in Medina Mohammad took on a new role as the cities political statesmen, he undertook a role as military commander and defeated a challenge from the Makkan army at the Battle of Badr.  In Medina Mohammad established the first mosque, introduced regular prayer times and established the Five Pillars.  The Umma also worked together as a united community, which broke down tribal barriers and aimed to protect all members of the community.  Also in Medina social sanctions where introduced in order to protect the poor and infantasise and exposure was forbidden and was replaced by community loyalty payment of Zakat, this is because through Gods revelation the people were given an understanding that the needs of the Islamic community had to ocme first.

As you can see from the above the Hijrah was significant for Islam because without Mohammad being rejected from makkah and having to escape persecution so emigrating to Medina the first Muslim Community might not have been set up.