Shiite (Shia) vs. Sunni Muslims It was brought about by who should lead Islam Muhammad never had a son Closest male relative was cousin named Ali Many felt he was the only one with spiritual authority to succeed Muhammad. They became the Shiite (Shia) Muslims

More information Sunni's believed that power should go to the one who had the most political power at the time. Muhammad's father in law Abu Bakr Bakr was named the first leader, but Ali assumed the position 25 years later Ali was later assassinated by the Sunnis. Both believe in Mohammad, The Koran, The Five Pillars of Faith, and Mecca as the most holy city.

Breaking Point Ali's son Hussein and many in his family was assassinated He had challenged the Sunni corrupt leadership This became sacred to the Shiites as they felt he sacrificed himself for all Muslims Even though they have lived side by side for years there has always been tension

Facts 80-90% of Muslims are Sunni 10-20% are Shia mostly located in Iran/Iraq Al Qaeda is a group of radical Sunni Muslims Suicide bombing is done by a small minority of mostly Sunni's (Al Qaeda) Iraq seems to be the center of this divide