The Safavid Empire

Introduction

• Also known as Persia, modern-day Iran has a rich history of empires.
• The Safavid Empire governed Iran during the 16th and 17th centuries.
• Marked the beginning of modern Persia.

Consolidation of Power

• Safavid Empire succeeded in unifying nomadic groups under their control.
• Religion played a key role in maintaining power.

Religious Foundation

• Beginnings in Sufism, a mystical sect of Islam.
• Shifted focus to Shiism, believing religious authority comes from the lineage of Ali (Prophet Muhammad's son-in-law).
• Considered intolerant; strong military used to enforce Shiism.
• Described as a theocracy, with rulers using religious authority for governance.

Key Rulers

Shah Ismail

• First ruler of the Safavid Empire.
• Known for freeing Persians from Ottoman Empire.

Shah Abbas the Great

• Considered the greatest emperor of the Safavids.
• Strengthened imperial power by limiting local nobles' influence.
• Opened trade with Western powers, notably the British.
• Promoted flourishing arts and culture, including architecture and literature.

Decline of the Empire

• After Shah Abbas's death in 1629, the throne passed to his grandson.
• His grandson's lack of responsibility led to the weakening of the empire.
• The Safavid Empire succumbed to internal strife and outside invasions in the 18th century.