2.2 The Safavid Empire
Cultural Blending Societies benefit from mixing of cultures if they are willing to adapt Causes of cultural blending Migration Pursuit of religious freedom or conversion Trade Conquest
Cultural Blending Cultural changes due to blending Language eg: adoption of foreign words (kindergarten) Religious & ethical systems eg: Jesuit priests converting Africans Government styles eg: Democracy in Eastern Europe Racial and/or ethical blending eg: children of mixed heritage Art & architecture eg: Feng shui
Safavid Empire Build strong army because between two powerful empires Isma’il conquers present-day Iran (1501 C.E.) 12-years old Names himself shah (king) Isma’il = religious tyrant Non-converts to Shi’a Islam executed Destroys Sunni Muslims in Baghdad (Ottomans) Selim the Grim executes all Shi’a Muslims in Ottoman Empire Feelings of hatred still exist today
Safavid Empire Shah Abbas leads Safavid golden age Reduces power of military Punishes government corruption Hired foreigners as government officials Brings Christians into empire This brings Europeans into area Uses foreigners to build new capital city Persian carpets very popular Kills ablest sons (same as Ottomans)