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  • Essay / Parallel Empires: Ottoman and Mughal Governance, Religion, and Culture

    Table of ContentsSystems of GovernmentReligious ToleranceCultural InfluencesDifferencesConclusionThe Ottoman Empire and the Mughal Empire were two powerful empires that existed in different parts of the world. The Ottoman Empire spanned Europe, Asia, and Africa, while the Mughal Empire was located in the Indian subcontinent. Despite their geographical differences, the two empires shared several similarities in terms of systems of government, religious tolerance, and cultural influences. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Systems of Government One of the main similarities between the Ottoman and Mughal empires was their systems of government. Both empires were ruled by monarchs, known as the Sultan and the Emperor respectively. The Ottoman sultan held absolute power and was considered the supreme authority in political, religious and military matters. Likewise, the Mughal emperor had complete control over his domain and enjoyed the support of a large military and administrative bureaucracy. Both empires also had a complex system of government, with complex hierarchies and a division of power that delegated responsibilities to various officials at different levels. Religious Tolerance Another significant similarity between the Ottoman and Mughal empires was their tolerance of religious diversity. The Mughal Empire was known for its policy of Din-i-Ilahi, which aimed to promote religious harmony and syncretism among its diverse population. Likewise, the Ottoman Empire was home to several religious communities, including Muslims, Christians, and Jews. The Ottoman government allowed a certain degree of religious freedom, with non-Muslim populations having their own religious laws and courts. This policy of tolerance and acceptance fostered a sense of multiculturalism that contributed significantly to the cultural and intellectual achievements of both empires. Cultural Influences Culturally, the Ottoman and Mughal empires were also similar. Both empires maintained a vibrant and cosmopolitan society that saw the flourishing of art, literature and architecture. The Ottomans, for example, developed a distinct architectural style known as Ottoman architecture, characterized by its intricate geometric patterns and use of domes and arches. Likewise, the Mughal Empire was renowned for its elaborate monuments such as the Taj Mahal and the intricate art of miniature paintings. Both empires also had a rich literary tradition, with famous works such as the Ottoman Siyer-i Nebi and the Mughal Akbarnama. DifferencesDespite their similarities, the Ottoman and Mughal empires also had their differences. The Ottoman Empire was primarily based on a Sunni Muslim identity, while the Mughal Empire was more diverse, with a significant Hindu and Muslim population. Additionally, the Ottomans were primarily a military power, while the Mughals excelled in arts and culture. The Ottomans were known for their formidable army, while the Mughals' strength lay in their cultural achievements. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion In conclusion, the Ottoman and Mughal empires were two great empires sharing several similarities in their governance, religious tolerance, and cultural achievements. Both empires contributed significantly..