In Sura 4, verse 34, the Qua’ran orders men to beat their wives if they fail to be properly obedient:
4:34 Men are in charge of women, because Allah hath made the one of them to excel the other, and because they spend of their property (for the support of women). So good women are the obedient, guarding in secret that which Allah hath guarded. As for those from whom ye fear rebellion, admonish them and banish them to beds apart, and scourge them. Then if they obey you, seek not a way against them. Lo! Allah is ever High, Exalted, Great.
Wife Beating in Islam is an extensively researched explanation and discussion of this topic. It provides historical background and includes analysis by (and of) a wide range of Islamic scholars.
On the other hand, this video explains clearly and succinctly why the rod is a necessary tool for dealing with womenfolk.
In America, women can buy firearms which make them the equal of any man. If more Muslim women possessed firearms, Muslim men might learn to be more well behaved.
