3. There are two major branches of Islam. Write a short paragraph identifying the two branches. Explain why Islam split and describe the relationship between the two branches, then and now.

The two major branches of Islam are Sunni and Shi'a. Islam split after the death of Muhammed when they questioned who would lead the Muslims. The relationship between the two branches is their different interpretations of the Koran and the succession to Muhammed. 90% of Muslims are Sunni and they believe in more traditional values, such as, the Koran may not be added to or taken from, than the Shi'a. Shi'a believe the Koran is unauthentic and, unlike the Sunni, offer their own views of its doctrine.