1. 2.2
The Safavid Empire

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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)