The Rise of Islam

• Abu Bakr, Muhammad's father-in-law and chief advisor, became caliph after Muhammad's death.
• As caliph, Abu Bakr was Muhammad's political and religious successor.
• Abu Bakr united the Muslim world and suppressed political and religious revolts.
• Abu Bakr initiated conquests of neighboring territories, including Syria, Egypt, and the Persian Empire.
• Jihad translates to "struggle in the name of God” or defensive warfare according to the Quran.
• A caliph is Muhammad's political and religious successor.
• Jihad is described as a “struggle in the name of God” or defensive warfare.
• The Umayyad line was founded by Muawiyah, an Arab general, in Damascus (previously Medina).
• The Umayyads expanded the Arab empire, conquering North Africa and most of Spain.
• The Umayyad dynasty faced economic problems, difficulties in controlling the empire, and religious disagreements.
• Hussien, the son of Ali, started a revolt and died which caused in a split between Shia and Sunni Islam.
• Rashidun refers to the 4 caliphs that followed Muhammad: Abu Bakr, Umar, 'Uthman, and Ali.
• Arab expansion in Spain stopped because of the Battle of Tours in 732 CE.

Shia and Sunni Muslims

• Shia Muslims only accept descendants of Ali as rulers of Islam.
• Shia Muslims primarily reside in Iraq and Iran, making up 15% of Muslims today.
• Sunni Muslims descend from those who accepted the Umayyads as legitimate caliphs, albeit grudgingly.
• Sunni Muslims are the majority, comprising 85% of Muslims today.