It is generally thought that the Alawites (formerly called Nusairians) trace their origins to the religious teacher Muhammad Ibn Nusair (died around 883). His teaching led to a new sect and a consequent splitting from Ismailism, a Shiite cult of Islam.

In the last 15 years there has been a significant surge of Islam in Tatarstan, though the majority of the Tatar population remains nominally or culturally Muslim. In 1990 there were about 100 mosques in the entire Republic, and by 2004 there were over 1000.

Demographics: One fifth of the world population is statistically Islam. Muslims are the majority in 52 nations. 20.12% are Muslims. Other estimates are higher. See our chart and reference ...

The Pattani Malay people once had their own powerful and prosperous kingdom, until they were invaded and taken over by what was then called Siam (Thailand). Over the years, their unique Muslim culture has led to many separatist movements against the Thai government as they have developed a feeling of independence.