PBS
Pbs News Hour: The Role of the Kurds, Sunnis, and Shiites in Iraq
A way to discuss the complex formation of the Iraqi government with students. This lesson plan shows students the different ethnic groups within Iraq and how their views and opinions effect not only Iraq but the surrounding countries and...
New York Times
New York Times: Ethnic and Sectarian Tensions in Iraq
An interactive map that shows the different ethnic groups throughout Iraq. The map has video and audio and tries to explain the relationships and conflicts between the three main groups in Iraq. (25 June 2006)
BBC
Bbc: Sunni and Shia Muslims
An informative site to help explain the differences between Sunni and Shia (Shiite) Muslims. Discusses their beginnings and their split into two differently thinking groups.
Council of Foreign Relations
Council on Foreign Relations: Grand Ayatollah Ali Al Sistani
This profile comprised by the Council on Foreign Relations discusses Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani's role in Iraqi politics and his influence on the region. (September 1, 2004)
CBS
Cbs News: Religions
An interactive map that gives an overview of the different religions that make up Iraq. Shows where each religion is concentrated and what areas of the country it controls.
BBC
Bbc: Who's Who in Iraq: Ayatollah Sistani
This profile focuses on the role of Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani in Iraqi politics and government. (26 August 2004)
BBC
Bbc: Najaf Militants Surrender Shrine
Article reports on the chaotic circumstances surrounding Najaf as militants clash in this holy city. 8/27/04
New York Times
New York Times: Evolution of Islam
Interactive media timeline that gives a brief description of Islam, the spread of Islam, the different Islamic groups, and the conflict in the Middle East.
BBC
Bbc: Who's Who in Iraq: Moqtada Sadr
This site from BBC provides an article dated Aug. 6, 2004, describes the radical Shia cleric Moqtada Sadr who has been calling for rebellion against the United States. (Updated 19 January 2012)
Other
Teachable moment.org: Iraq: Shiites, Sunnis, Kurds, Americans, and Problems
An analysis of the new government in Iraq and how the different ethnic groups will work into the new government. Case studies for students and ideas for follow up activities after this instructional activity.
BBC
Bbc: 'Bin Laden' Warning to Iraq Shias
Relates Bin Laden's opinion that it is important that the Iraqi Shias do not continue to attack the Iraqi Sunni Muslims. Discusses the tensions between the two groups, and why they are attacking each other. (2 July 2006)
PBS
Pbs News Hour: Najaf, a Holy City Caught in the Crossfire (Lesson Plan)
A lesson that provides insights into the Iraqi response to a U.S. military incursion into Najaf, an Iraqi religious center. The lesson involves learning about the two main branches of Islam: Shiitism and Sunnism. Students identify why...
Curated OER
Washington Post: Who Is Moqtada Sadr?
An article from the Washington Post dated Aug. 16, 2004, provides information on Sadr, a Shiite cleric, who has opposed American presence in Iraq.