ISLAMIC EXPANSION and CALIPHATES
This map above shows the growth of Islam.
Soon after Muhammad's death in 632 CE, many tribes renounced Islam fearing that Islam would die without Muhammad. Muhammad's most trusted advisors met to chose a caliph. They knew any successor could not provide any spiritual guidance, but olny military and political guidance. Four canidates emerged. They were all friends of Muhammad.
THE FIRST CALIPH
The council chose Abu Bakr. He was a wealthy Meccan merchant. He was very rich, but he lived very simply.His first task was to persuade the Bedouin tibes far from Mecca that Islam was still strong. He also had his army go from victory to victory against the Romans. Abu Bakr died suddenly, spreading panic. He only ruled for two years but contributed much to the spreading of Islam.
THE SECOND CALIPH
Umar (caliph from 634-644 CE) was specifically appointed as caliph by Abu Bakr on his deathbed. Umar was well trained in military strategy and commanded the army that defeated the Persians. During his life, giant additions were made to the Islamic Empire, including Egypt, Syria, and most importantly Jerusalem.
THE THIRD AND FOURTH CALIPH
The third caliph was named Uthman(644-656 CE). Umar had called a council to choose a new caliph. Caliph Uthman continued to expand the empire and compile the Qur'an, but internal problems were looming. Communications with Medina and Mecca was difficult and diferent cultures were smashed together. Uthman was murdered by unhappy Egyptians.
The fourth caliph and last caliph was Ali. He was the first cousin to Muhammad. Ali did not want to become caliph because of the murder of the previous caliph. When at last he accepted, Uthman's wife and brother demanded that the murderers should be brought to trial. Ali didn't want to try anyone wrongly. Rebels started moving in on Medina and Mecca so Ali moved his capital to Iraq. Uthman's brother now openly rebelled against Ali. Many battles were fought without any victory.
A radical Muslim group proclaimed that the real caliphate ended with Umar and all other rulers should be killed and three assasins were sent to kill them. Two were caught but the assasin for Ali got through and murdered Ali.