Why did the wealthy merchants in Mecca try to kill Muhammad? please hel

As Islam spread in Mecca, the ruling tribes began to oppose Muhammad's preaching and his condemnation of idolatry. The Quraysh tribe controlled the Kaaba and drew their religious and political power from its polytheistic shrines, so they began to persecute the Muslims and many of Muhammad's followers became martyrs.

Explanation:

2018 means 2018 ce or common era

there have been other eras too including bce, which included way more years.