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Ali

Also known as: Ali ibn Abi Talib, Lion of God

Born: 600 CE
Died: 661 CE — assassinated while praying
Era: The Rise of Islam

Cousin and son-in-law of Muhammad, fourth caliph and first Imam of Shia Islam. Son of Abu Talib and Fatimah bint Asad. Among the first to accept Islam, converting as a child. Married Fatimah, Muhammad’s daughter; their descendants are honored as Sharifs and Sayyids. Faced opposition including the Battle of the Camel (656 CE) against Aisha. Assassinated while praying in Kufa in 661 CE. Sunni Muslims honor him as the fourth Rightly Guided Caliph; Shia Muslims consider him Muhammad’s rightful successor from the start.