Land-Based Empires EXPAND [AP World History Review—Unit 3 Topic 1]

Summary

This AP World History unit explores the rise of land-based empires from 1450 to 1750, focusing on the Ottoman, Safavid, Mughal, and Qing dynasties. These 'gunpowder empires' expanded due to military innovations and territorial control. The Ottomans' capture of Constantinople and the Safavid's declaration as a Shia state were pivotal. The Mughal Empire prospered under Akbar's tolerant rule, while the Qing overthrew the Ming, expanding into Central Asia. Conflicts arose from religious differences and territorial ambitions, such as the Safavid-Mughal wars and the Moroccan invasion of the Songhai Empire.

Takeaways

• 🌍 The focus is on land-based empires expanding during 1450-1750, with a key difference from sea-based empires.
• 🛡️ These land-based empires gained power through territorial expansion and military strength, primarily using gunpowder.
• 🏴 The Ottoman Empire was a significant Islamic empire during this period, known for its strategic use of gunpowder and conquest of Constantinople in 1453.
• 🔫 The Safavid Empire, established in the 1500s, declared itself a Shia Muslim state, creating tension with neighboring Sunni empires.
• 🕌 The Mughal Empire in South and Central Asia expanded rapidly with gunpowder, and under Akbar, it became religiously tolerant and prosperous.
• 💥 The Ming Dynasty in China declined due to internal issues and external wars, leading to the rise of the Qing Dynasty, which expanded China's territory.
• ⚔️ Conflicts between empires, such as the Safavid-Mughal wars, were driven by both political goals and religious differences (Shia vs. Sunni).
• 🧨 The Moroccan-Songhai conflict highlights how gunpowder weapons gave certain empires a military edge, with Morocco defeating the Songhai due to this advantage.
• 📜 The script emphasizes the significance of gunpowder technology as a key factor in the expansion and dominance of these empires.
• 🎯 Religious and political rivalries were common as these empires vied for dominance, often leading to protracted conflicts without clear victories.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Unit 3 in AP World History?

The main focus of Unit 3 is to discuss the expansion of land-based empires between the years 1450 to 1750.

What distinguishes land-based empires from sea-based empires?

Land-based empires derive their power from territorial holdings, while sea-based empires gain power through control of the seas.

What is the common cause for the expansion of these land-based empires?

The common cause for the expansion of these empires is their militaristic use of gunpowder, which is why they are often referred to as gunpowder empires.

What is significant about the Ottoman Empire's control of the Dardanelles?

The Ottoman Empire's control of the Dardanelles was significant because it was a strategic choke point they used to launch many of their campaigns of expansion.

What was the most significant achievement of the Ottomans during this period?

The most significant achievement of the Ottomans was the sack of Constantinople in 1453, which they renamed Istanbul and became the crown jewel of their empire.

Why was the Safavid Empire's declaration as a Shia Muslim State significant?

The Safavid Empire's declaration as a Shia Muslim State was significant because it set them apart from neighboring Sunni Muslim empires, leading to religious rivalry and conflict.

How did Akbar's religious tolerance contribute to the Mughal Empire's prosperity?

Akbar's religious tolerance, along with his administrative skills, allowed for a more harmonious rule over the majority Hindu population, contributing to the Mughal Empire becoming the most prosperous empire of the 16th century.

What was the ethnic background of the Ming Dynasty and how did it differ from the preceding Mongol rule?

The Ming Dynasty was ethnically Han, which contrasted with the preceding Mongol rule that was established by outsiders. This led to the establishment of a truly Chinese dynasty after the Mongols.

How did the Qing Dynasty come to power in China?

The Qing Dynasty came to power by taking advantage of the fractured Ming Dynasty. They invaded and set up their own dynasty, launching a 40-year campaign of conquest to claim all former Ming territory.

What were the main reasons for the conflicts between the Safavid and Mughal Empires?

The main reasons for the conflicts between the Safavid and Mughal Empires were their desire to expand into the Persian Gulf and Central Asia, as well as their religious rivalry due to the Safavids being Shia Muslims and the Mughals being Sunni Muslims.

Why was the Moroccan invasion of the Songhai Empire successful?

The Moroccan invasion was successful because they had gunpowder weapons, which the Songhai lacked, giving them a significant military advantage.