What initiated the division within Islam between the Sunnis and Shias?

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The division within Islam between Sunnis and Shias began with a disagreement over who should assume leadership in the Islamic world. After the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632 CE, there was a dispute over who should succeed him as the leader of the Muslim community. Sunnis believed that the caliph, or leader, should be elected by the Muslim community, while Shias believed that the Prophet's son-in-law and cousin Ali should have succeeded him as the rightful leader. This disagreement eventually led to a split in the Muslim community and the formation of two distinct branches of Islam.

What Initiated the Division Within Islam Between the Sunnis and Shias