The first Caliph was Abu Bakr.
Following the passing of the Prophet Muhammad, the Muslim community faced the decision of appointing a political successor. According to the provided reference, there was internal debate among the community regarding this succession.
Some members of the community believed that the successor should be Muhammad's cousin, Ali. However, based on the reference, the individual ultimately chosen to lead was Abu Bakr.
- Abu Bakr was a close friend and father-in-law of Muhammad.
- He is identified as the first caliph.
- His rule as the first caliph lasted for two years.
The reference states: "The Muslim community debated among themselves who to appoint as political successor to Muhammad. Some believed that it should be Muhammad's cousin, Ali, but the one chosen ended up being Abu Bakr, Muhammad's close friend and father-in-law. Abu Bakr, the first caliph, ruled for two years."
