1. Ottoman Empire (1300 – 1918) – Ottomans, a nomadic Turkish group, emerged as rulers of the Islamic world: Captured Constantinople in 1453, renamed it Istanbul Cut off trade with Asia for a period of time Sultan ruled the empire from Istanbul Christians and Jews were tolerated & given some limited means of self-government Ottoman Empire reached its height in the 1500s under Suleiman the Magnificent.

2. Suleiman the Magnificent (1495 – 1566). He held absolute power. He was also known as the Lawgiver. Skilled in crafts, government and war. He supported the arts and built public baths, bridges, and grand mosque complex.

3. Mogul/Mughal Dynasty in India – United India under a single government, they established a new dynasty, but eventually lost their empire. Muslims had invaded India in the 11 th century and established sultanates. In the 16 th century, descendants of the Mongols founded the Mughal Empire in India Akbar the Great united India and reconciled Hindus and Muslims Akbar’s grandson, Shah Jahan ended religious tolerance and built the Taj Mahal