Historical Events tagged with "sunni"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Iran Cuts Diplomatic Ties with Saudi Arabia

January 3rd, 2016 9 years ago

Iran announced the cessation of diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia following the execution of prominent Shia cleric Nimr al-Nimr. This decision stemmed from widespread outrage in Iran over al-Nimr’s execution, which had ignited protests and condemnation within the country. The Iranian government condemned Saudi Arabia's actions as a violation of religious rights, significantly escalating tensions between the two nations of the Middle East.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Bahraini Uprising Begins with Day of Rage

February 14th, 2011 14 years ago

A massive protest demanding political reforms erupted in Bahrain as hundreds of demonstrators gathered in the capital, Manama. The 'Day of Rage' aimed to address long-standing grievances related to political representation, economic inequality, and human rights abuses faced by the Shia majority. Inspired by the wider Arab Spring movement, these protests saw participants call for greater freedoms and the resignation of the ruling monarchy. The day marked a significant turning point in Bahrain’s socio-political landscape.

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Religion & Philosophy

Explosions at the Al-Askari Shrine Escalate Sectarian Tensions

February 22nd, 2006 19 years ago

Explosions rocked the al-Askari Shrine in Samarra, a pivotal site in Shia Islam, at approximately 6:44 a.m. local Iraqi time. This attack marked a significant turning point, igniting widespread sectarian violence across Iraq and intensifying the rift between Sunni and Shia factions. The shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, held immense religious significance, and its destruction led to outrage among Shia communities and calls for revenge against Sunni groups.

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Military & Warfare

Al-Qaeda's Ashoura Massacre in Iraq

March 2nd, 2004 21 years ago

A devastating attack occurred in Baghdad during the Ashoura religious observance. As thousands of Shiite Muslims gathered to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, Al-Qaeda orchestrated a suicide bombing, resulting in the deaths of approximately 170 individuals and injuries to over 500 others. The bombing targeted a crowded street filled with participants, highlighting the violent sectarian tensions in Iraq following the invasion.

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Military & Warfare

Wahhabis Attack Karbala, Thousands Killed

April 21st, 1802 222 years ago

In April 1802, approximately twelve thousand Wahhabis stormed the city of Karbala, inflicting significant casualties on the local population. The Wahhabi forces, motivated by a drive to eradicate what they viewed as heretical practices, laid waste to the city and killed over three thousand inhabitants in their assault. This event marked a violent chapter in the historical conflict between Wahhabism and Shia Islam, deeply impacting the region's socio-religious landscape.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of Ali Marks Caliphate's End

January 26th, 661 1364 years ago

Ali ibn Abi Talib, the last caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate, was assassinated in a plot orchestrated by his political adversaries. This event unfolded in Kufa, present-day Iraq, where Ali had established his seat of power following the tumultuous period of civil strife. His death led to a significant shift in the Islamic community's leadership and marked the effective end of the Rashidun Caliphate. Ali was not only recognized for his role in Islam as the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad but also as a warrior and political leader. The aftermath of his assassination fueled further division within the Muslim community, ultimately resulting in the establishment of the Umayyad Caliphate.

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Politics & Government

Ali's Ascension as Caliph of Rashidun Caliphate

June 18th, 656 1368 years ago

Ali ibn Abi Talib became the fourth caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate, following the murder of Uthman ibn Affan. The event marked a significant transition in Islamic leadership. It took place amidst political unrest and challenges regarding Uthman's governance. Ali's leadership was immediately tested by internal factions and external threats, leading to a tumultuous period in Islamic history.

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Religion & Philosophy

Death of Fatimah, Daughter of Muhammad

August 28th, 632 1392 years ago

Fatimah bint Muhammad, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, passed away in Medina. Her death sparked considerable debate among Sunni and Shia Muslims regarding the circumstances surrounding it. Many accounts suggest she was affected by grief over her father's passing, leading to varying interpretations of her cause of death. Fatimah's passing also raised discussions on her legacy and her role in Islam, particularly how it influenced the succession of leadership in the Muslim community.

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