Sunni and Shia Muslims share the same core beliefs about Islam. They both pray to Allah, follow the Quran, and believe Muhammad was the final prophet. The main difference comes from who they think should have led the Muslim community after Muhammad died. Sunnis believe the first four caliphs were the rightful leaders, including Abu Bakr, who succeeded Muhammad.
Shias think Ali, who was Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, should have been the next leader. They believe leadership should have stayed in Muhammad's family line. This split happened way back in the 7th century, but both groups are Muslim. Today, about 85% of Muslims are Sunni and 15% are Shia.
Both groups follow the Five Pillars of Islam and have very similar daily practices...