In this paper, I explore the first two hundred years of Islam and compare and contrast with Mormonism during a similar time frame. I use three foci of comparison. First, I explore ways Mormonism and early Islam seek to control the telling of history. Second, I will explore similarities in the rift between Sunni and Shi’a playing out today and the more peaceful schism of the Utah Saints and RLDS/Community of Christ. Finally, I focus on the differences between a movement that began in the desert and swiftly moved to take political control of older seats of power, and a movement that was forced from seats of power and sought refuge in the desert.

ANN CHAMBERLIN