Gunpowder Empires

Islamic empire ruling most of the Indian subcontinent, creating a synthesis of Persian, Central Asian, and Indian cultures

Persian empire that established Twelver Shi'ism as Iran's state religion, creating a distinct Iranian-Islamic identity

Last Chinese imperial dynasty, ruled by Manchus, expanded China to its greatest territorial extent

Manchu military-social organization that conquered China and maintained Qing dynasty rule for nearly three centuries

Military government that unified Japan and maintained 250 years of peace through isolationist policies

Reincarnating spiritual leadership combining religious authority with political rule, governing Tibet for centuries