COST OF RECONSTRUCTION: Cultural and political identities

Reasons forSunni-Shiite conflict

Their differences are rooted in disagreements over succession to the Prophet Muhammad and the nature of political leadership in the Muslim community. Sunnis are supporters of political succession according to the Prophet Muhammad’s customs, whereas Shiites support succession according to Muhammad’s bloodline.

Sunnis

“Eagerly participated in Ottoman rule, advancing to administrative roles.

“Make up majority of world’s Muslim population but are minority in Iraq.

“Were widely opposed to proposed Iraq constitution.

“Considered backbone of insurgency.

Shiites

“Distanced themselves from Ottoman government for religious reasons.

“After Gulf War, Saddam Hussein’s Republican Guard crushed a Shiite rebellion, reportedly killing tens of thousands.

“Form majority in Iraq, though make up 10 percent to 15 percent of Muslims.

Kurds

“Muslims who live in areas throughout the Middle East with no country of their own.

“Speak different language and have different traditions than Arabs.

“In 1970s and ‘80s, Saddam reportedly waged ethnic cleansing campaign against them – thousands were gassed by his army while their villages were bulldozed.

Baath Socialist Party

“Saddam’s political party.

“Espoused secularism, communist economics and a pan-Arab ideology that ascribes an Arab character to all ancient Mesopotamian civilizations, despite the region’s diversity in ethnic and religious groups.