E. Napp The Safavid Empire In this lesson, students will be able to define the following terms: Safavids Shi’ites Shah

E. Napp The Safavids created an empire in Persia in the 1500s.

E. Napp The Safavids The Safavids established a Shi’ite state in Persia, modern-day Iran. The Safavids were in conflict with the Sunni Ottomans. Both the Shi’ite Safavids and the Sunni Ottomans claimed to be the true leaders of the Islamic world.

E. Napp The Ottomans and Safavids were rivals.

E. Napp Shi’ite Muslims There are two main branches of Islam: the Sunni branch and the Shi’ite branch. The primary difference between these two branches concerns leadership of the Islamic community. Sunni Muslims believe a capable Muslim can lead the community while Shi’ite Muslims believe leadership should be hereditary through Muhammad’s son-in- law.

E. Napp Shi’ites believe that leadership of the Islamic community is hereditary.

E. Napp Shahs Safavid rulers were called Shahs. A Shah was an absolute ruler of the Safavid Empire. Shahs used their large armies to maintain control of their empire.

E. Napp The production of beautiful rugs flourished in Safavid Persia.

E. Napp Miniature paintings also flourished in the Safavid Empire.

E. Napp Trade Safavid rulers greatly encouraged trade. The production of beautiful Persian rugs and miniature paintings flourished in the Safavid Empire. Trade increased wealth.

E. Napp Literature, medicine, and the study of astronomy thrived in Safavid Persia.

E. Napp Safavid Decline However, high taxes and continuous warfare with the Ottoman Empire weakened the Safavids. In 1722, the Safavid Empire was conquered by neighboring Afghanistan. From , the Safavids ruled Persia.

E. Napp Can you find the Safavid Empire on this map?

E. Napp Questions for Reflection: Who were the Safavids? Why were the Safavids in conflict with the Ottomans? What is the primary difference between Sunni Muslims and Shi’ite Muslims? Compare and contrasts Shahs and Sultans. What factors led to the decline of the Safavid Empire?