History Soon after the death of the prophet Mohammed in the 7th century, the islam was divided on the question of who was to be his successor. A new successor was chosen by the largest of the denomination of islam, the Sunni. The Shias however, another branch of islam, didn't acknowlegde this as they were of the opinion Mohammed had already chosen a successor. Ali, the cousin and son in law of Mohammed, was to be the only rightful successor. The name Shia is from the Arabic "Sji'at Ali', meaning followers of Ali. It's true that Ali has been the caliph for a while, but only after three other caliphs preceded him. Ali was caliph for 5 years and was killed while praying in the Kufeh mosque. He was struck by a sword and killed by the son of Muljim. This is the reason why Alevi people were a chain with a sword pendant. This sword isn't the original but it is very old. The handle was made with leaf gold, but this is wearing off.