Safavids

• established a Shiite state in modern-day Iran

• were in conflict with the Sunni Ottomans because they both claimed to be the true leaders of the Islamic world

• Ottomans will defeat the Safavids and claim Mecca and Medina

Shahs

• Shah = ABSOLUTE ruler (means all powerful) of the Safavid empire

Ismail

• Started the Safavid empire at age 14 in most of what is modern day Iran

• Religious tyrant - anyone who did not convert to Shiite Islam was put to death

• destroyed the Sunni population in Baghdad in his fight with the Ottomans

Shah "Abbas the Great"

• reformed military and civilian life

• reformed the government - harshly punished corruption and promoted officials based on merit

• promoted culture and art

• had relationship with the Europeans

Persian Rugs made by Safavids

Miniature Paintings

Trade

• Safavid rulers greatly encouraged trade because it increased wealth

• their location was a benefit to trade

• known for their rugs and miniature paintings

Education

• literature, medicine, and the study of astronomy thrived in the Safavid empire

Safavid Decline

• high taxes and continous war with the Ottomans weakened the Safavids

• 1722 they were conquered by neighboring Afghanistan