The Safavid Empire: How a Dynasty Forged Modern Iran

Often studied alongside their famous rivals, the Ottomans and Mughals, the Safavid Empire was a powerhouse that fundamentally reshaped Persia. But what was their secret? From their origins in a mystical Sufi order to establishing Twelver Shi'ism as a state religion, the Safavids didn't just conquer territory—they forged a new national identity for what is now modern-day Iran. This article explores the complex historical context of the Safavid dynasty, examining:

• Their dramatic rise to power under Shah Ismail I.
• The intense geopolitical and religious rivalry with the Sunni Ottoman Empire.
• The cultural and political 'golden age' under Shah Abbas the Great.

Get ready to understand how this 16th-century empire's legacy continues to echo in the world today.