The supporters of Ali in the conflict for power in the Islamic world during the Middle Ages are known as the A. Shia. Ali was the son-in-aw and the cousin of prophet Mohammad. The Shias regarded Ali as the first Imam and thus they considered Ali and his descendants as the direct and the legitimate successor of Mohammad. It was even theorized that Ali was born inside the Kaab in Mecca. The Shias when they regard Ali they would add the title peace upon him. He was a close companion of Mohammad, especially during the persecution of Muslims by the Meccans.