The Muhtasib was a market inspector and a religious official. He ensured that weights and measures were accurate, that prices were fair, and that public behavior followed Islamic norms.
1262
Which Safavid Shah's death was kept secret for several months to ensure the smooth transition of power to his son?
When Shah Abbas I died in 1629, his advisors and family kept his death secret for nearly two months. They feared that the news would trigger an immediate Qizilbash uprising or an Ottoman invasion before his grandson, Shah Safi, could be crowned.
1263
The 'Masjed-e Sheikh Lotfollah' is famous for its dome that changes color from cream to pink during which time of day?
The unique tiles of the Sheikh Lotfollah dome are designed to capture the light in a specific way. During the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset, the dome appears to glow with a delicate pinkish-red hue.
1264
Which Safavid Shah faced the first major encroachment by the British East India Company into Iranian internal affairs?
Shah Abbas I initially welcomed the British to help him against the Portuguese. However, this began a long-term trend where European trading companies gained significant leverage over the Iranian economy and political decisions.
1265
What was the 'Qur-chi' in the Safavid military hierarchy?
The Qur-chis were the most senior and prestigious soldiers in the Safavid army, usually drawn from the Qizilbash tribes. They served as the Shah's personal bodyguards and the vanguard of the cavalry.
1266
Which Safavid Shah's reign is considered the beginning of the end of Safavid maritime power in the Persian Gulf?
During the long, mostly peaceful but stagnant reign of Shah Suleiman (r. 1666–1694), the Safavid navy was neglected, allowing regional powers and European companies to dominate the Gulf trade routes.
1267
The 'Tuzuk-e Safavi' refers to what type of literature?
The 'Tuzuk' (Regulations or Memoirs) were documents that outlined the administrative rules and royal history of the dynasty. They served as a guide for governance and a record of the Shah's achievements.
1268
Which Safavid Shah successfully took the city of Herat from the Uzbeks in 1598, securing the eastern frontier?
After rebuilding the army, Shah Abbas I launched a massive campaign to the east. His victory at Herat permanently broke the Uzbek threat to Khorasan and ensured Safavid control over western Afghanistan for over a century.
The Divan-khana was the center of government activity. It was where the Viziers met, where the Shah held public audiences, and where important judicial and administrative decisions were announced.
1270
Which Safavid Shah was deposed by a coalition of Qizilbash leaders after he tried to limit their access to the treasury?
Shah Mohammad Khodabanda was essentially a puppet of various Qizilbash factions. When he was unable to satisfy their financial demands or control their violence, they overthrew him in favor of his son, Abbas.
