rise of the empire
Government and culture
The greatest Shah, the Persian term for king, was Shah Abbas, who came to power in 1587. He borrowed tactics from outside groups to further the empire's power. He also used merit to employ government workers, and later introduced religious tolerance which helped trade with European Christians. Art mixed together Persian and European culture, most well shown in their carpets.
decline of the empire
Similar to the Ottomans, Shahs blinded or killed the more capable of their sons in order to keep their power. Weak leaders led to a rapid decline in power. The Safavid Empire lasted until only 1747.