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Janissaries

Elite Ottoman infantry units comprised of Christian boys conscripted, converted to Islam, and trained as soldiers.

Sikhs

Followers of Sikhism, a monotheistic religion founded in the 15th century in the Punjab region of India, emphasizing equality, community service, and devotion to God.

Shah Esmail

Founder of the Safavid Empire, who established Twelver Shia Islam as the empire's official religion.

Ulema

Islamic scholars and legal experts responsible for interpreting religious law and guiding the community.

Taj Mahal

Magnificent mausoleum in Agra, India, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Akbar

Most famous Mughal emperor, known for his religious tolerance, administrative reforms, and cultural achievements.

Aurangzeb

Mughal emperor known for his strict enforcement of Islamic law and expansion of the empire.

Mughal Dynasty

Muslim dynasty in India that established a powerful and culturally rich empire.

Battle of Lepanto

Naval battle in 1571 where the Holy League defeated the Ottoman fleet, halting Ottoman expansion in the Mediterranean.

Mehmed II

Ottoman Sultan who conquered Constantinople in 1453, marking the end of the Byzantine Empire.

Safavids

Persian dynasty known for promoting Twelver Shia Islam as the state religion.

Gunpowder Empire

Powerful empires that extensively used firearms in their military expansion, such as the Ottomans, Safavids, and Mughals.

Battle of Vienna

Significant conflict in 1683 where European forces repelled the Ottoman siege of Vienna, marking a turning point against Ottoman expansion into Europe.

Sultan

Title for the ruler of the Ottoman Empire, signifying supreme authority.

Shah

Title used by Persian monarchs, equivalent to 'king' or 'emperor'.