Mapping the Shia

[davidbfpo]

This thread is prompted by Ganulv's post, which will appear first when it is moved here.

I think it deserves it's own, maybe short-lived post - as geographers and regional, if not religious experts are none too plentiful here. He highlights a strategic requirement that has eluded wider notice IMHO.

As a starter Wikipedia has some maps and a table on the Shia:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shia_Islam

I was curious to learn Tanzania has a minority of Shia, but none listed in Kenya.

For the Middle East, a more detailed map (small scale):http://gulf2000.columbia.edu/images/...ionCore_sm.jpg

[ganulv]

I was curious to learn Tanzania has a minority of Shia, but none listed in Kenya.

The historical trade routes between Gujarat and Zanzibar may be the why of the Shia presence in Tanzania. I could be wrong about that, of course.