Gunpowder Empires Notes (PDF)

ottoman empire Unit 3 Notes: Gunpowder Empires 11/11 - Gunpowder Empires - The Ottoman Empire (Turkey), Safavid Empire (Iran), and Mughal Empire (India) gained prominence largely due to gunpowder, an invention from China. - Their success was heavily dependent on the use of adva...

ottoman empire Unit 3 Notes: Gunpowder Empires 11/11 - Gunpowder Empires - The Ottoman Empire (Turkey), Safavid Empire (Iran), and Mughal Empire (India) gained prominence largely due to gunpowder, an invention from China. - Their success was heavily dependent on the use of advanced firearms and cannons. - Collectively, these empires are referred to as the "Gunpowder Empires." - Early Modern Period (c. 1400-1800) ○ - During this era, these empires were among the most powerful and stable economies globally. ○ - Their economic strength spurred commercial expansion and fostered greater cultural patronage. ○ - Additionally, their political and legal institutions became increasingly consolidated and centralized. ○ - Historically, the rise of one empire often coincides with the decline of another.  Notes 11/12 Kingdom ○ Nation (country) that is ruled by a monarch, ruled by a king or queen. Dynasty ○ Sequence of rulers from the same family. ○ The leader is usually called an Emperor or Empress. Empire ○ Consists of many different regions and nations under its control, ruled by an Emperor or Empress. The Ottoman Empire ○ By 1300, the Byzantine Empire was declining, and the Mongols had destroyed competitor kingdoms in the Turkish region. ○ Anatolia (part of Turkey in Asia) was inhabited mostly by the descendants of pastoral nomadic Turks. ○ These militaristic clans had a long history of invasion. ○ Loyal to their own groups, they were not united by a strong central power. ○ A small Turkish group occupied land between the Byzantine Empire and that of the Muslims. ○ From this place, Osman I would emerge to unite the Turks into what eventually would become an immense empire stretching across three continents (Beck, 507). Rise of the Ottomans ○ The Ottoman Empire was an imperial (relating to empire) state founded in 1299 after growing out of the breakdown of several Turkish tribes. ○ The Ottoman Empire is named after Osman I. He ruled only a small principality (state) during his lifetime. ○ The Ottomans’ military success was largely based on the use of gunpowder. ○ They replaced their archers on horseback with musket-carrying foot soldiers. ○ They also were among the first people to use cannons as weapons of attack. ○ That city, placed at the junction of two seas and two continents, seemed like a diamond set between two sapphires and two emeralds, to form the most precious stone in a ring of universal empires.” —Osman’s Dream of Constantinople, 1280 ○ Osman I = Founder of Ottoman Dynasty c. 1299 Siege of Constantinople ○ The Ottoman Empire really began to expand and consolidate power in the fifteenth century (1400s), especially after the conquest of Constantinople. ○ In 1453, Mehmed II aka “The Conqueror” captured Constantinople - the Byzantine Empire’s capital. This put an end to 1,100-year reign of the Byzantine Empire. ○ Much of the success was a result of the Ottoman military and an elite fighting force called the Janissaries. ○ The Janissaries were enslaved young Christian males. ○ They were converted to Islam, raised in the Islamic faith, and either became administrators for the sultan or members of the sultan's personal bodyguard and military. ○ Mehmed II renamed the city Istanbul and made it the new capital of the Ottoman Empire. ○ Istanbul became a dominant international center of trade and culture. ## Organized Notes ### Types of Armies - **Standing/Professional Army**: Permanent, career soldiers employed full-time by the state. - **Conscripted Army (Draft)**: Civilians who are required to serve, often during periods of conflict. - **Mercenary Army**: Private soldiers for hire, serving for pay rather than allegiance. ### Ottoman Empire and the Role of Religion - The Ottoman Empire, like the Mongol Empire, was **multiethnic and multireligious**, spanning three continents and lacking a single unifying identity. - **Islam was central** to the empire's authority, and the state’s legitimacy was based on religious foundations. - Non-Muslims, such as Christians and Jews, were recognized as **"People of the Book"** and were generally allowed religious freedom under Ottoman rule. - Early sultans, such as **Osman I**, expanded the empire in the name of Islam, and **Sultans claimed the title of Caliph**, positioning themselves as successors to the Prophet Muhammad. ### Suleiman I - **Suleiman the Magnificent** (also known as **Suleiman the Lawgiver**) was the tenth and longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman Empire, ruling from 1520 to 1566. - His administration governed an empire of at least **25 million people**, and he is known for legal reforms that strengthened and centralized the Ottoman state. ### Hagia Sophia - Originally built as a **Christian cathedral** by Roman Emperor Justinian I in Constantinople (532 AD). - After **Mehmed II’s conquest of Constantinople in 1453**, it was converted into a mosque, with architectural modifications reflecting Islamic symbolism. - This conversion demonstrates how the Ottomans consolidated power by adapting prominent structures to assert Islamic authority. ### Integration of Diverse Peoples - As the empire expanded, the Ottomans allowed conquered groups to **retain their own customs and religions**. - **Local leaders** were appointed to help govern, providing a measure of autonomy and facilitating loyalty without forcing complete assimilation. ### Political Power and Control - **Is political control only acquired or consolidated by force? Why or why not?** - Political control isn’t solely about using force; it can also be built through **trust, alliances, and inclusivity**. Relying on cooperation and making people feel part of the system can reduce the need for conflict. - **Do empires still exist in modern times? If yes, what purpose do they serve?** - Yes, modern empires can exist in different forms, like **influential nations that hold power over smaller states**. These “empires” often promote **trade, security, or cultural exchange** rather than territorial control. - **What are some ways to exercise control through nonviolent and non-coercive means?** - Non-coercive control methods include: - **Diplomacy**: Building alliances and good relations. - **Cultural influence**: Creating shared values or promoting cultural ties. - **Incentives**: Offering benefits that make cooperation more appealing than resistance. Why is art from the Ottoman Empire in a museum in New York? 11/18/24 Hegemony is dominance of one country, culture, or social group over others. Hegemony refers to the dominance of one country, culture, or social group over others. Islam was the dominant religion in the Ottoman Empire. Non-Muslims in the Ottoman Empire had a lower social status compared to Muslims. Non-Muslims were subjected to special taxes and economic restrictions. The Ottoman millet system allowed non-Muslim communities some autonomy. Each millet had a religious leader responsible for managing community affairs. Clear boundaries between social groups were crucial for Ottoman political control. Ottoman laws dictated the clothing styles permitted for different communities. Ottoman society was diverse, making it complex to outline governing rules. Bureaucrats, religious scholars, and military officials held the most social power. Warrior-aristocrats, primarily Muslim, received tax exemptions and land grants through the timar system. The timar system granted land in exchange for military service. Ottoman society was stratified into various millets based on religion. Wealthy non-Muslims paid a jizyah tax, while poorer individuals paid devshirme. The empire discouraged conversion to Islam to maintain its tax base. Professional Ottomans included merchants, tradesmen, and guild members. Social stratification existed between dominant and non-dominant groups. Official laws and unofficial social norms shaped cultural practices. Cultural blending occurred within the diverse population of the Ottoman Empire. Cultural diffusion can be observed through interactions and exchanges among various communities.  Notes 11/19/24 Culture encompasses the customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of specific groups. It represents a way of life, including both positive and negative elements. Cultural blending occurs when different cultures interact and mix over time. Key factors that initiate cultural blending include migration, trade, conquest, and religious freedom or conversion. The Turks sought to expand their territory, influencing cultural interactions. The Ottoman Empire's strategic location along trade routes facilitated cultural contact. Cultural interaction exposes societies to new ideas, technologies, foods, and lifestyles. Common sites for cultural blending include trade routes, ports, and national borders. Cultural diffusion refers to the gradual spread of cultural elements over time. Culture is one of many influences on individual behavior and identity. Personal characteristics such as personality, age, gender, and education also shape behaviors. Cultural blending leads to societal changes in language, religion, governance, and the arts. The Internet plays a role in cultural diffusion and blending. Major platforms like Google, Facebook, and Twitter influence how culture is shared. Wikipedia serves as a collaborative encyclopedia, promoting information sharing. Despite its global reach, the Internet predominantly features a few dominant languages. English, Chinese, Spanish, and Arabic are the primary languages online. Approximately 95% of the world's languages are mainly used offline. The online world often reflects a monoculture compared to the diversity of offline languages. Cultural blending and diffusion can enrich societies but may also lead to homogenization. safavids  Safavids Cultural Blending How did the location of the Safavid Empire contribute to the cultural blending in the empire? Where does cultural blending begin? How can cultural diffusion take place? Migration, religious freedom/conversion, trade, conquest Rise of the Safavid Empire ○ In 1499, a 12-year-old leader named Isma’il led this army to conquer Iran. He took the traditional Persian title of shah and made Shi’a Islam the religion of the new empire. He destroyed Baghdad’s Sunni population. ○ Ottoman Turk rulers—who were Sunni Muslims—in turn killed all the Shi’a that they met. This conflict between the two groups of Muslims continues today. ○ The border between the Ottoman Empire and the Persian Empire remains—it is the border between Iran and Iraq. ○ Cultural blending took place in the Safavid Empire of Persia. ○ The Safavids were Shi’a Muslims, a branch of Islam. ○ The major group of Muslims, the Sunnis, persecuted the Shi’a for their views. ○ The Safavids feared the Sunni Muslims (aka the Ottomans). So, the Safavids decided to build a strong army to protect themselves. What is the relationship between Shi’a and Sunni Islam? Did Shi’a Islam have hegemony in the Ottoman Empire or Safavid Empire? Did Sunni Islam have hegemony in the Ottoman Empire or Safavid Empire? Background ○ The primary ideological difference relates to questions of religious authority and the leadership of all Muslims following the death of the Prophet (Mohammed). Shi’a ○ Shi’a make up about 10% of the global Muslim population. ○ Shi’a focus on the lineage of Mohammad’s family through a series of Imams Sunni ○ Sunni make up about 87% of the global Muslim population. ○ Sunni focus on Imams (religious leaders) that follow the Prophet’s example/lessons, and not necessarily familial lineage. ○ So What Understanding the differences between the two most populous branches of Islam is essential for comprehending many of the geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East as well as community tensions in *diasporic communities in the West. Sunni and Shi’a communities have a lot more in common in their beliefs and practices than they have differences. *Diaspora = the dispersion or spread of people from their homeland  Notes 11/22/24 ​ Military and Governance under Shah Abbas Shah Abbas ruled the Safavid Empire at its peak in the late 1500s. Established two armies loyal only to him, equipped with advanced gunpowder weaponry. Dismissed corrupt officials, improving the efficiency and integrity of the government. ​ Diplomatic and Economic Achievements Built strong diplomatic relations with European nations. Persian rugs became highly sought after in Europe, driving a transition from local craft to a global industry. Cultural blending introduced European-inspired designs into Persian rugs. ​ Artistic and Cultural Advancements Shah Abbas sent Persian artists to Europe to train, including under the artist Raphael. Invited skilled artisans from around the world to the Safavid Empire. Esfahan, the capital city, was transformed into a cultural masterpiece, known as the most beautiful city in the world at the time. Chinese artists contributed with styles in calligraphy, glasswork, and pottery. Art from diverse traditions, including Persian and European, was integrated into Esfahan’s architecture and crafts. ​  Power 11/25 Power can be defined as control, authority, or influence over others. The power of a government can be seen in dominance of one group over others via systems and institutions of governance such as: Laws and courts Taxes Military Infrastructure and public works Regulation of trade Bureaucracy Policing of residents and nonresidents Power The ability to influence the behavior of others to get the outcomes one wants. Soft Power Persuasion: Culture Diplomacy History Hard Power Coercion: Military Action Economic Sanctions  How did the Safavid Empire collapse? Like the Ottoman Empire, the Safavid Empire began to decline soon after it had reached its greatest height. Shah Abbas killed or injured his most talented sons -- just as Suleiman I had done. Shah Abbas feared that his sons would seize power from him. As a result, a weak and ineffective grandson became shah after him. This led to the decline and eventual fall of the Safavid Empire around 1736. mugahls Date: December 3, 2024 Title: Notes on the Mughal Empire Introduction to Gunpowder Empires The Mughal Empire was one of the three major Gunpowder Empires, alongside: ○ Ottoman Empire ○ Safavid Empire How Did the Mughal Empire Gain Power? Founded in 1526 by Babur, a Muslim ruler from Central Asia. Babur captured Delhi to establish the empire. Expanded primarily through violent conquests. By unifying smaller kingdoms in South Asia, the Mughals created a centralized government. How Did the Mughal Empire Maintain Power? Centralized Government: Unified smaller kingdoms under one system. Cultural Tolerance: ○ Many Hindu officials were allowed in senior government and military positions. ○ Policies promoted cooperation between the majority Hindu population and Muslim rulers. Military Strength: ○ Used gunpowder weapons to maintain dominance. ○ Regularly expanded territory to strengthen the empire. Important Rulers Babur (1526–1530): Founder of the Mughal Empire. Akbar the Great (1556–1605): ○ Known for expanding territory significantly. ○ Famous for cultural achievements and tolerance toward Hindus. Aurangzeb (1658–1707): ○ Expanded the empire but also faced internal rebellions. Achievements of the Mughals Architecture: ○ Built beautiful structures like the Taj Mahal and Red Fort. ○ Combined Persian, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. Art and Culture: ○ The Mughal court became a center for poetry, painting, and music. ○ Promoted a mix of Indian and Persian cultural traditions. Trade: ○ Positioned in a key area for overland and maritime trade routes. ○ Exported goods like textiles and spices. Major Challenges Religious Tensions: ○ Early policies were tolerant, but under Aurangzeb, more strict Islamic laws caused rebellions. Rebellions and Decline: ○ Over time, internal divisions and external invasions weakened the empire. ○ The empire officially ended in 1857 after the British took control. Key Geography to Know Delhi: Central city and important historical location. Ganges River and Indus River: Key rivers in the region. Himalaya Mountains: Natural barrier in the north. Kabul and Mumbai: Other notable locations. Historical Timeline Highlights 1526: Babur establishes the Mughal Empire. 1556-1605: Reign of Akbar the Great. 1658-1707: Reign of Aurangzeb, leading to peak expansion but internal unrest. 1857: The Mughal Empire falls under British rule. Through violent conquest, the Mughals organized many smaller kingdoms in south Asia under a strong centralized government.  The Mughals were Sunni Muslims who ruled over a majority Hindu population. For much of their empire, they allowed Hindus to reach senior government and military positions. The action of speaking or acting on behalf of someone. A government representative of its people is better run, more meritocratic, and helps achieve equity. Why is REPRESENTATION in circles of influence/power important? Mughal Empire - Religious Demographics the nomadic people who established the Mughal Empire in India were Sunni Muslims while the majority of the population in India was, and remains, Hindu. Over their almost 300 year rule, Islam became a major religion in India. Today, there are close to 200 million Muslims in India, and the northwestern part of south Asia, which was part of the Mughal Empire, is today made up of the Islamic countries of Pakistan and Afghanistan. That said, the vast majority of people on the Indian Peninsula was and still are Hindu. Nearly 80% of the population identifies as Hindu. Slightly less than 15% of the population identifies as Muslim, 2% identify as Christian, less than 1% identify as Buddhist. Mughal artwork depicts Emperor Akbar presiding over discussions in the Hall of Religious Debate, ca. 1600. Nationalism is the idea that loyalty, devotion, or allegiance to a country outweighs the needs of individuals or groups. Think back to our conversation earlier, about REPRESENTATION. Why is representation in circles of influence/power important? Writing Practice: Three-Sentence Answers (3SA) 1. Claim: Answer the question with a "because." 2. Evidence/Example: Use specific information to back your claim. 3. Reasoning/Analysis: Show deeper thinking by analyzing the impact or significance of your evidence. Example (from Safavid Empire): The Safavid Empire blended cultures because they welcomed foreigners. This tolerance encouraged trade and arts, leading to cultural exchanges with Europeans. This interaction improved Persia’s economy and enriched its culture.