Abu Bakr
first caliph of the Muslim empire (632-634). Ascending to power after the death of his son-in-law Muhammad. He made Islam a political and military force throughout Arabia.
Caliph
successor to Muhammad. A political and religious leader of the Muslims
Sunni
a member of one of the largest Muslim sects who believe that inspiration comes from the example of Muhammad as recorded by his early followers
Shiite
a member of one of the two major Muslim sects. Believe that the descendants of Muhammad's daughter and son-in-law Ali are the true Muslim leaders
Sufis
Muslim mystics who seek communion with God through meditation, fasting and other rituals
Umayyads
members of the Sunni dynasty of caliphs and ruled a Muslim empire from 661 to 750
Abbasids
dynasty that ruled in Baghdad from 750 - 1258
Baghdad
capital city of present day Iraq. Capital of the Muslim empire during Islam's golden age
Minaret
slender tower of a mosque from which Muslims are called to prayer
Sultan
Muslim ruler