What are the difference between Shia and Sunni Islam?

Question

I didn't know that there are types of Islam.

Answer 1

They are part of the stories about muslim world,  but some of us know what they really mean,  Religion permeates every aspect of life in Muslim countries and understanding Sunni and Shi'a beliefs is important in understanding the modern muslim world.

Answer 2

Shia Muslims have not recognized the authority of elected Muslim leaders, choosing instead to follow a line of Imams which they believe have been appointed by the Prophet Muhammad or God Himself. While Sunni Muslims contend that leadership of the community is not a birthright, but a trust that is earned and which may be given or taken away by the people themselves.