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Safavid Empire. 1501-1722. Origins . Founded by Safavids, a religious brotherhood Became stronger through the centuries by attracting warlords and through marriages 15 th century – became more aggressive Ottomans outlawed them Declared Independence under Shah Ismail . Shah Ismail.
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Safavid Empire 1501-1722
Origins • Founded by Safavids, a religious brotherhood • Became stronger through the centuries by attracting warlords and through marriages • 15th century – became more aggressive • Ottomans outlawed them Declared Independence under Shah Ismail
Shah Ismail • Founder of Empire • Declared Shi’ite official religion • Reigned 1501-1524 • Believed to be related to Prophet Muhammad
Creating a Theocracy • Forced Conversion of those living in the area • Brought in Shi’ite scholars to promote a religious elite • Gave money to Shi’ite schools • Persecution • Replaced importance of the Hajj
Political Life • Shah • Landed Classes, Bureaucracy • Common People • Appointments Based on Merit • Hired foreigners for positions in government
Shah Abbas, "The Great" • 1588-1629 • Ruled during its high point • Used Muskets and Artillery to fight Ottomans • Gained land, but only temporarily • Gave greatly to the arts • However, also locked up his family
Cultural Life • Rich on growing trade • Painting, metal work, carpets, silks, glass • Isfahan – capital city • Became one of the world’s most elegant cities
Decline of the Safavids • Ottoman threat declined • Decreased effectiveness of the military • Lost Territory • Corruption • Power passed to ulema – proclaimed Islamic Republic
After the Empire • 1726 – Afghan group destroys ruling dynasty 200 centuries of decay • 1921 – Reza Khan seized control proclaimed Shah • Oil wealth • Corruption • 1979 – Ayatollahs under Ayatollah Khomeini take control