The Muslim Empires

Rise of the Ottoman Turks Empire began near the Bosporus and Dardanelles Over the next 300 years, rule expanded to Asia, North Africa and Europe Under the leadership of Mehmed II, the Ottoman Turks, gained control of Constantinople and the Byzantine Empire Eventually controlled Islam’s Holy cities Tried to push into Europe, but these attacks were repelled

The Ottoman World Gunpowder Empire ▫Mastered technology of firearms Sultans ▫Head of Ottoman government ▫Hereditary ▫Took many wives Religion ▫Islam ▫Generally tolerant of non-Muslims Architecture/Arts ▫Pottery, rugs, silk ▫Magnificent mosques

Sultans became less involved in government Western ideas, began to take over Ottoman ideas

The Safavid Dynasty Founded by Shah Esmail Seized much of Iran and Iraq Conquered many territories Used Shia faith to unite empire ▫Sunni had to convert to Shia

Life Under the Safavids Shah ▫More available to their subjects Economy ▫Active in trade and manufacturing ▫Roads were fair Culture ▫Growth of the arts, especially painting

The Mogul Dynasty Moguls came from area north of Indus River Valley Akbar brought most of India under Mogul rule by 1605 ▫Increased power of military ▫Very tolerant of those conquered ▫Long period of peace and stability ▫Prosperous trade

Life in Mogul India Women ▫Played an active role in society ▫Used for political advice Culture ▫Taj Mahal constructed