Muslim Civil War of 657-661
At a glance:
- Series: Magill’s Guide to Military History
- Categories: Religion, Ethics, Military History
- Subcategories: Wars, Battles, Islam, Muslims, Mosques, Civil Wars, Coups
- Curriculum: Middle Eastern History
- Geographical Location: Iraq, Syria
- Date: 657-661
Article abstract: At issue: Control of Muslim world. Result: The first Muslim Civil War temporarily delayed the Arab conquests, laid the foundations for the rise of Umayyad Dynasty (661-750), and created the perpetual rift between Sunni and Shiite Muslims.
Background
As the cousin, adopted son, and son-in-law of Muhammad, ʿAlī ibn Abī Tālib was the closest male relative of the Prophet, and thus a major contender for the office of caliph—successor to Muhammad and ruler of the Muslims. Deemed too young to take the reins of power at the time of the...
[The entire page is 811 words long]