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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The British Empire may be a well-known, long-standing sovereignty to this day, but much of the world's current modern civilization has been profoundly shaped by the immense impact of these largest empires in history.
Dating far back to the eras of B.C., these dynasties extended their influence far beyond their original origins, leaving indelible legacies in areas as diverse as culture, economics, and technological advancement.
List of Largest Empires in History
Britannica and World Atlas noted that there are several dynasties included in the world's largest empires in history, with details as follows:
1. Persian Empire
The Persian Empire was the largest empire in history, lasting from 559 BC to 331 BC. The dynasty, which spanned the areas of modern-day Turkey, Iran, Egypt, and parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan, first demonstrated its importance under the reign of Cyrus II, according to National Geographic.
Unlike many other monarchs, Cyrus, known as the "Shah" or King of Persia, was widely regarded as a merciful emperor to the kingdoms he conquered. After Cyrus's reign ended, Darius I succeeded him and continued to expand the empire, establishing provinces and governor systems.
2. Han Dynasty
As the second-largest empire in history, the Han Dynasty appears to have been the longest-lasting dynasty, outlasting even other Chinese empires. The Han dynasty was considered a literate society for an imperial empire, with well-documented records showing its cultural milieu.
According to Britannica, the Han Dynasty adopted a Confucian ideology that focused on moderation, virtue, and filial piety, effectively overshadowing the regime's authoritarian policies.
3. Umayyad Caliphate
Founded after the death of the Prophet Muhammad, the Umayyad Caliphate extended its influence over the Arabian Peninsula, North Africa, Spain, and parts of Central Asia. Despite its relatively short existence, the Umayyad Caliphate played a significant role in the spread of Islam through advances in art, architecture, and culture. At its height, between 661 and 750, the Umayyad Caliphate ruled over approximately 4.29 million square miles of the Middle East and North Africa.
4. Mongol Empire
The Mongol Empire became a major trading center, facilitating the exchange of goods, technologies, commodities, and ideas. Under Genghis Khan's leadership, new diplomatic ties were also forged between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Founded by Genghis Khan in 1206, the Mongol Empire maximized the unity of the Mongol tribes, resulting in control over a significant portion of Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and China. At its height, the empire covered an estimated 23 million square kilometers across Eurasia.
5. Ottoman Empire
The Ottoman Empire, one of the largest in history, achieved great success by controlling some of the world's most profitable trade routes and maintaining a well-organized military system. Its downfall began when the empire fought its first battles on the fields of Anatolia. Later in the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire was referred to as the "sick man of Europe" for its increasing dependence on Europe, according to National Geographic.
6. Spanish Empire
In addition to spreading the Spanish language, the Spanish Empire was also the first to introduce new crops such as potatoes and tomatoes to Europe, contributing significantly to global economic growth.
Led by Portugal and Spain, the Spanish Empire was one of the largest colonial empires in history, covering 5.39 million square miles in the Caribbean, the Americas, Europe, and North Africa.
7. Russian Empire
Uniting diverse territories, religions, languages, and cultures, the Russian Empire achieved significant economic growth and improved living standards through rapid industrialization. Today, much of the former Empire's territory is part of the Russian Federation, which continues to exert considerable influence in world affairs.
The Russian Empire was a massive political force that greatly influenced global geopolitics, thanks to its territory spanning three continents. Under the visionary leadership of Emperor Peter the Great (Peter I), the empire expanded immensely, becoming one of the largest in history, with nearly 125.6 million people under its rule.
8. British Empire
Through colonization, trade, and warfare, the British Empire became the largest empire in history in terms of both population and territory. From the late 16th century to the mid-20th century, the British Empire maintained its dominant position, inspiring the phrase "The sun never sets on the British Empire".
Although much of its territory was relinquished after World War II, the legacy of the British Empire continues to shape global affairs today, with lasting cultural, economic, political, and social influences, as seen in the widespread use of the English language.
9. The Qing Dynasty
The Qing Dynasty, China's last imperial dynasty, was founded by the ethnic Manchu Aisin Gioro clan and ruled what is now China, Mongolia, and Taiwan. During its reign from 1644 to 1922, the Qing Dynasty fostered administrative refinement and notable cultural achievements, including the creation of Qing porcelain and the flourishing of art and literature.
The enduring legacy of the Qing Dynasty continues to play a pivotal role in shaping China's cultural identity, underscoring its profound influence on various aspects of life.
These largest empires in history not only transformed the political and cultural landscape of their eras but also left lasting legacies that continue to influence the world today. For history geeks, you might want to check out the coverage of these greatest leaders in history.
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