the era of the four caliphs

Abu Bakr:
victory at Yarmouk
vistory at qadisiyya
conquest of egypt

Ali:
battle of the Camel
battle of Siffin
battle against the Kharijites

the Umayyad Caliphate:

switch from elected religios/political leader to dynastic political leader

Abu Bakr was Muhammad's friend and Father in law

Ali, descendent of Muhammad, great warrior, backed by the Shi'at al-Ali
Aisha (Ali's wife) tried to overthrow him but failed

Umayya Sufian was Muhammad's major opponent, but when he lost he converted.
his son Muawiyah usurps Ali, and declares a heraditary monarchy