Gunpowder Empires and Related Historical Concepts

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Gunpowder Empires

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Large multiethnic states in SW, Central, and South Asia that relied on firearms to conquer and control territories. Includes Russia, Ottomans, Safavid, and Mughal Empires.

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Gutenberg printing press

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An invention that used movable type to print, increasing literacy and making it possible to produce books more quickly and cheaply.

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Ivan IV

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Known as Ivan the Terrible, the first Tsar of Russia (1547 to 1584). Expanded the Russian border eastward and established the precedent for future Russian autocrats.

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Ming Dynasty

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Followed the Mongol Yuan Dynasty, stabilized the region for nearly 300 years, expanded and reinforced the Great Wall. Overthrown by the Manchu, who founded the Qing Dynasty in 1644.

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Kangxi

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An emperor in the Qing Dynasty, one of China’s longest reigning emperors, presiding over a period of stability and expansion.

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Ottoman Empire

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Largest and most enduring of the Great Islamic Empires, lasting 600 years.

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Safavid Empire

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Established Shia Islam in northern Iran, began by Ismail, expanded Persian influence, and battled with the Ottomans.

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Mughal Empire

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In India, started by Babur, a descendant of Tamerlane. Known for its rich cultural contributions and establishment of centralized governance.

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Qing Dynasty

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Manchu-led dynasty that overthrew the Ming Dynasty, expanded China’s borders, and adopted Chinese administrative practices.

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Manchu

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A powerful group from Manchuria who overthrew the Ming Dynasty in 1644 and established the Qing Dynasty.