Islamic Empires: Geography

Directions: Complete the Activities below on the left side of your notebook under the title Islamic Empires: Geography.

Background

Like the emerging nation-states of Europe, during the sixteenth century the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal Empires were all new, dynamic, and expansive domains.  All three Islamic empires were more multiethnic and multireligious than the European nation-states.  Although this situation posed specific problems for the Islamic central governments, during most of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the rulers of all three empires were nevertheless able to create strong central governments that promoted stability and order.  In the process of doing so, they each developed innovative and unique governing styles.

Activity

Go to The World, 1500-1800. Write a few sentences comparing and contrasting the geographical scale and scope of the European nation-states with the extent of these Islamic empires.  Don't forget to include the Europeans' overseas possessions. 

Maps

Print out a map for the Empire you are studying and tape or staple to the left side of your notebook.

Ottoman Empire Maps:

Safavid Empire Maps

Mughal Empire Maps:

Next: Style of Government