The statement that accurately describes the role of key individuals in the rise and spread of Islam is:
A. Muhammad was the leader and founder of Islam in its origin, the companions spread the religion, and the first four caliphs expanded the Islamic Empire after Muhammad's death.
This statement correctly identifies Muhammad as the founder of Islam, recognizes the role of his companions in spreading the religion, and notes that the first four caliphs (Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali) played significant roles in expanding the Islamic Empire following Muhammad's death.