Abbas I vs Edward VII

Abbas I created a standing army of ghulams (military slaves) recruited from Christian subjects in the Caucasus, particularly Georgians and Armenians. This reduced reliance on the Qizilbash tribal forces, increased royal control, and modernized the military with firearms and artillery.

Abbas I moved the Safavid capital from Qazvin to Isfahan, transforming it into a magnificent city with grand architecture, including Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the Shah Mosque, and the Ali Qapu Palace. This relocation became a symbol of Safavid power and cultural flourishing.

Abbas I sent diplomatic missions to European courts, including those of Philip III of Spain, Rudolf II of the Holy Roman Empire, and Elizabeth I of England, seeking alliances against the Ottoman Empire. These missions opened sustained diplomatic and commercial exchanges between Safavid Persia and Europe.

Abbas I defeated an Ottoman army near Sufiyan, securing Safavid control over Azerbaijan and the Caucasus. This victory was part of the Ottoman-Safavid War of 1603-1618, which resulted in the recapture of Tabriz, Nakhchivan, and Yerevan from Ottoman occupation.

Abbas I, with support from the English East India Company, captured the island of Hormuz from Portuguese control. This ended Portuguese dominance in the Persian Gulf and opened direct trade routes for Safavid Persia with Europe, boosting the silk trade.

Abbas I captured Baghdad from the Ottoman Empire after a siege, restoring Safavid control over Iraq. This victory expanded Safavid territory and gave Abbas control over important Shi'a pilgrimage sites like Najaf and Karbala.

Edward VII became king upon the death of his mother Queen Victoria. He was the first monarch of the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. His accession marked the beginning of the Edwardian era, a period of social and cultural change.

Edward VII made a state visit to France, which improved Anglo-French relations. He was warmly received by the French public and government. This visit helped pave the way for the Entente Cordiale and strengthened diplomatic ties.

Edward VII played a key role in the Entente Cordiale, a series of agreements between Britain and France. This resolved colonial disputes and established a diplomatic alliance. It laid the groundwork for the Triple Entente and shaped pre-WWI alliances.

Edward VII died of bronchitis at Buckingham Palace at age 68. He was buried in St George's Chapel. His death ended the Edwardian era and passed the throne to his son George V. His reign saw the rise of the Labour Party and social reforms.