UNIT 3: LAND BASED EMPIRE REVIEW (AP WORLD HISTORY) #apworld #apworldhistory

The speaker introduces the early modern period of AP World History (1450-1750), emphasizing the importance of periodization. The video's purpose is to review Unit 3, focusing on land-based empires, and encourages viewers to utilize additional resources such as the ultimate review packet and study guide for comprehensive preparation. The speaker highlights the significance of the Ottoman, Mughal, Safavid, and Manchu (Qing Dynasty) empires, known collectively as MOMS, and teases the four key questions that the review will address for each empire: their rise to power, maintenance of power, main rivals, and the role of belief systems.

The Ottoman Empire's rise to power is attributed to the use of gunpowder, exemplified by their conquest of Constantinople in 1453. The empire's maintenance of power involved the Devshirme system, where children from conquered territories were recruited, trained, and integrated into various societal roles, particularly the military as Janissaries. The Ottomans also demonstrated their power through monumental architecture, such as the Topkapi Palace and Suleymaniye Mosque. The empire's belief system was majority Sunni Islam, and they managed religious diversity through the Millet system, which granted autonomy to religious communities while ensuring loyalty to the Sultan.

The Safavid Empire emerged by filling the power vacuum after the Timurid Dynasty's decline. The Safavids maintained power through the strict enforcement of Shia Islam, which became the state religion and shaped the identity of the empire. Their main rivals were the Sunni Ottomans and Mughals, with whom they fought over territorial expansion and religious supremacy. The Safavids' belief system played a crucial role in their empire, with their Shia faith distinguishing them from their neighbors and contributing to a unique cultural and political identity.

The Mughal Empire's rise to power was also facilitated by gunpowder, leading to their victory over the Delhi Sultanate. They maintained power through a policy of tolerance, particularly under Akbar the Great, and a unique tax collection system involving local elites called Zamindars. The Mughals are renowned for their architectural achievements, such as the Taj Mahal. Their main rivals included the Safavids and the Hindu Marathas, who eventually contributed to the empire's decline. The Mughals were Sunni Muslims but ruled over a predominantly Hindu population, and their belief system was marked by religious tolerance. Additionally, the Mughal period saw the emergence of Sikhism, which combined elements of Hinduism and Islam.

The Manchu Empire, later known as the Qing Dynasty, came to power after the Ming Dynasty lost the Mandate of Heaven. They maintained power through the banner system, which integrated various ethnic groups and tribes under the Manchu rule, and the civil service exam, which ensured efficient administration. The Manchus also adopted monumental architecture, most notably the construction of the Forbidden City in Beijing. Their belief systems included Buddhism and Confucianism, which they integrated into their governance and society. The Qing Dynasty's main rivals were European powers, who would become more prominent in later periods of AP World History.

The speaker concludes the review of Unit 3 by reiterating the importance of focusing on the MOMS empires and their land-based characteristics. They also promote the ultimate review packet for further study and preparation. The video ends with a teaser for Unit 4, which will explore the theme of transoceanic interconnections and their impact on world history during the same period of 1450-1750.