The numerous violent confrontations between Sunni and Shi'ite Muslims result more from politics and historical legacies rather than differences in religious doctrine. What caused the schism in Islam and what positions in the argument did Sunnis and Shi'ites take?
The split developed because the Prophet Muhammad named no successor to take his place as the leader (Caliph) of all Muslims. Some of his followers argued that the person with the strongest leadership skills and greatest piety was best qualified to assume this role. These followers became known as Sunni, or orthodox, Muslims. Others argued that only direct descendants of Muhammad, specifically through descent from his cousin and son-in-law, Ali, could qualify as successors. They became known as Shia, or Shi'ite, Muslims.
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