Religious Makeup of the Ottoman and Mughal Empires in the Early Seventeenth Century

What was a significant difference between the Ottoman and Mughal Empires in the early seventeenth century?

A. The Ottoman Empire was predominantly Sunni Muslim, while the Mughal Empire had a diverse population that included Hindus and Sikhs.

Answer:

A significant difference between the Ottoman and Mughal Empires in the early seventeenth century was their religious makeup.

In the early seventeenth century, the Ottoman Empire was predominantly Sunni Muslim, while the Mughal Empire had a diverse population that included Hindus and Sikhs. This religious difference had implications for the governance and policies of each empire.

The Ottoman Empire, centered in present-day Turkey, was characterized by its strong Sunni Muslim identity, with the majority of its population adhering to this branch of Islam. On the other hand, the Mughal Empire, established in the Indian subcontinent, was mainly ruled by Muslim emperors but had a populace that encompassed Hindus and Sikhs as well. This religious diversity influenced the cultural landscape and social fabric of the Mughal Empire.

Due to their religious differences, the Ottoman and Mughal Empires implemented distinct governance and policies. The Ottoman Empire's Sunni Muslim identity shaped its institutions and laws, while the Mughal Empire's religious diversity led to a more eclectic approach to governance, accommodating various religious groups within its territories.