Gunpowder Empires and Imperialism

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and events related to the gunpowder empires and the dynamics of imperialism as discussed in the lecture notes.

What are gunpowder empires?

Large, multi-ethnic states in Southwest, Central, and South Asia that relied on firearms to conquer and control territories.

Which empires are considered gunpowder empires?

The Ottoman, Safavid, Mughal, and the Manchu Empire in China.

What was the role of armed trade for gunpowder empires?

They traded with each other while keeping troops ready to defend against trade challenges.

What language and cultural background did the gunpowder empires share?

They were all Muslims, spoke Turkic languages, and were descended from Turkic nomads.

How did the Ottoman Empire utilize cannons?

They used cannons to successfully besiege Constantinople.

How did the Safavid Empire rise to power?

Through their land-based military might and strong leadership from Shah Abbas.

What caused the conflict between the Safavid and Mughal empires?

The Safavids practiced Shia Islam while the Mughals followed Sunni Islam.

What significant tax collection method did the Mughals use?

They used zamindars, who were paid officials in charge of tax collection.

What religious conflict deepened between the Ottoman and Safavid empires?

The division between Sunni and Shia Islam.

What was Martin Luther's contribution to the Reformation?

He objected to the selling of indulgences and wrote the 95 Theses.

What was the Counter Reformation?

The Catholic Church's response to the Protestant Reformation, aiming to reform the Church and reaffirm its practices.

What was Akbar's approach towards Hinduism in the Mughal empire?

He promoted tolerance and appointed Hindus to government positions, attempting to reconcile Hinduism and Islam.

What is meant by 'tax farming' in the Ottoman Empire?

A system where local officials collected taxes while becoming wealthy and corrupt.

What were tributes and how were they used by the Mexica?

Tributes were used as a way to demand recognition of the empire's power, collected from conquered peoples.

What was the significance of the Taj Mahal?

It was built by Shah Jahan as a tomb for his wife and represents Mughal architecture and culture.

What theory did Social Darwinism derive from?

Charles Darwin's theory of evolution through natural selection.

What role did economic profit play in imperialism?

It motivated nations to expand their territories and control resources, as seen with the East India Company.

What were the consequences of King Leopold II's rule over the Congo?

He exploited the economy and subjected workers to brutal conditions, leading to international outcry.