Describe the split in the Muslim community caused by Muhammad's death.
After the death of Prophet Muhammad in 632 CE, there was a split in the Muslim community over the issue of his successor, known as the Succession Crisis. The majority of Muslims, who became known as the Sunni Muslims, believed that Abu Bakr, one of Muhammad's closest companions, should succeed him as the first caliph. However, a faction of Muslims, who became known as the Shia Muslims, believed that Ali ibn Abi Talib, Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, should be the rightful successor.
The split between Sunni and Shia Muslims has persisted throughout history and has led to differences in beliefs, practices, and leadership within the Islamic community. Sunni Muslims make up the majority of the Muslim population worldwide, while Shia Muslims are a significant minority, particularly in Iran, Iraq, and parts of Lebanon and Pakistan. Despite the split, both Sunni and Shia Muslims share the same basic beliefs in the fundamental teachings of Islam, including the belief in one God and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.