Final answer:
Sunni Muslims make up about 75% to 90% of all Muslims, while Shi'ite Muslims account for around 10% to 20%, with specific estimates pointing to 84% Sunni and 15% Shi'ite. This division, which originated from the early succession dispute after Prophet Muhammad's death, plays a significant role in the religious and political landscape, particularly in the Middle East.
Step-by-step explanation:
The percentages of Islam between Sunni and Shi'ite Muslims are an essential aspect of understanding the denominational divide within the religion. Sunni Muslims, comprising about 75% to 90% of all Muslims, accept that the first leader after Muhammad's death was his father-in-law Abu Bakr. In contrast, Shi'ite Muslims, who constitute about 10% to 20% of all Muslims, believe that Ali, Muhammad's son-in-law, was the rightful successor. This split originated from the debate over who should lead the Muslim community after the Prophet Muhammad's death and has had significant religious, social, and political implications over the centuries.
In terms of the precise percentages, based on the data available, Sunni Muslims make up approximately 84% of the Muslim population, while Shi'ite Muslims account for roughly 15%. This division is vital for understanding the geopolitical and religious dynamics in regions like the Middle East, where countries like Iran predominantly identify with Shi'ism, and many of their neighbors are Sunni. These divisions have at times led to conflict, but also periods of peaceful coexistence.