The Safavid dynasty restored Iran as a unified state after centuries of foreign rule, taking its name from the Sufi order of Safi-ad-din Ardabili. Ismail I seized Tabriz and proclaimed himself shah, and he made Twelver Shia Islam the state religion, shaping Iran's identity ever since. The new state clashed with the Ottomans, who defeated it at Chaldiran, and with the Uzbeks. Under Shah Abbas I the capital moved to Isfahan, which was rebuilt with spectacular mosques, bridges and gardens, and the army was reorganised and the arts, carpets and trade flourished. The dynasty declined and fell after an Afghan invasion in 1722, and Nader Shah took power in 1736.
Before and after
- from 15th century to 18th centuryEarly modern period
- from 1500 to 1785Khanate of Bukhara
- from 15th century to 16th centuryRise of Manueline
- 24 February 1500Birth of Charles V
- from 1501 to 1736Safavid dynasty
- from 1501 to 1736Safavid Iran
- 1501Birth of Ana Bolena
- 1 January 1502Birth of Gregory XIII
- c. 1500sMona Lisa
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The era
This moment belongs to the Early modern world (1500 CE to 1760 CE), voyages, printing and new ideas. You can also browse everything in the 16th century.