Notes on Land-Based Empires (1450-1750)

Overview

• During 1450-1750, major players were Land-Based Empires, not European maritime powers.
• European empires were expanding into areas not already dominated by these empires.
• Land-Based Empires had longevity; e.g., Mughals (fell in 1857), Tokugawa (1868), Manchu (1911), Ottoman (1919).

Key Land-Based Empires

Pre-existing Empires

• Manchu Empire

  • Continued from the previous Chinese dynasties.
  • Not a new formation but a continuation of a long-standing empire.

• Russian Empire

  • Evolved from previous Russian rulers.
  • Maintained continuity with past Russian governance structures.

New Empires in the Early Modern Period

• Ottoman Empire

  • Established as a new power in the early modern era.
  • Not an extension of previous dynasties.

• Safavid Empire

  • New dynasty, distinct from preceding powers.
  • Played a significant role in regional politics.

• Mughal Empire

  • Distinct from previous Indian empires.
  • Known for significant cultural and architectural contributions.

Other Significant Land-Based Empires

• While not central in curriculum, these empires also played important roles:

1. Songhai Empire

   • Prominent in West Africa.
   • Noted for its cultural and educational advancements.

2. Tokugawa Shogunate

   • Ruled Japan, known for its isolationist policies.
   • Significant for social and economic structures developed.

3. Inca Empire

   • Dominated the Andes region in South America.
   • Known for its extensive road systems and architectural achievements.

4. Aztec Empire

   • Located in Mesoamerica.
   • Famous for its complex social, political, and religious structures.

Importance of Studying Land-Based Empires

• These empires show the dominance of non-European powers in the early modern period.
• They contributed significantly to cultural, technological, and political developments globally.
• Understanding these empires provides a comprehensive view of world history beyond Western-centric narratives.