The word "empire" in Lately everyone knows it, it has even become fashionable. It bears a reflection of its former grandeur and luxury. What is an empire?
Is this promising?
Dictionaries and encyclopedias offer the basic meaning of the word “empire” (from the Latin word “imperium” - power), the meaning of which, without going into boring details and without resorting to dry scientific vocabulary, comes down to the following. Firstly, an empire is a monarchy headed by an emperor or empress (Roman However, for a state to become an empire, it is not enough for its ruler to simply be called an emperor. The existence of an empire presupposes the presence of sufficiently vast controlled territories and peoples, strong centralized power (authoritarian or totalitarian) And if tomorrow Prince Hans-Adam II calls himself emperor, this will not change the essence government system Liechtenstein (whose population is less than forty thousand people), and it will not be possible to claim that this small principality is an empire (as a form of state).
Not less important
Secondly, countries that have impressive colonial possessions are often called empires. In this case, the presence of an emperor is not at all necessary. For example, the English kings were never called emperors, but for almost five centuries they led the British Empire, which included not only Great Britain, but also a large number of colonies and dominions. The great empires of the world forever etched their names in the tablets of history, but where did they end?
Roman Empire (27 BC - 476)
Formally, the first emperor in the history of civilization is considered to be Gaius Julius Caesar (100 - 44 BC), who was previously a consul and then declared dictator for life. Realizing the need for serious reforms, Caesar passed laws that changed political system Ancient Rome. The role of the People's Assembly was lost, the Senate was replenished with Caesar's supporters, which granted Caesar the title of emperor with the right to pass it on to his descendants. Caesar began minting gold coins with his own image. His desire for unlimited power led to a conspiracy of senators (44 BC), organized by Marcus Brutus and Gaius Cassius. In fact, the first emperor was Caesar's nephew, Octavian Augustus (63 BC - 14 AD). The title of emperor in those days denoted the supreme military leader who achieved significant victories. Formally, it still existed, and Augustus himself was called princeps (“first among equals”), but it was under Octavian that the republic acquired the features of a monarchy similar to the eastern despotic states. In 284, Emperor Diocletian (245 - 313) initiated reforms that finally turned the former Roman Republic into an empire. From then on, the emperor began to be called dominus - master. In 395, the state was divided into two parts - Eastern (capital - Constantinople) and Western (capital - Rome) - each of which was headed by its own emperor. Such was the will of Emperor Theodosius, who, on the eve of his death, divided the state between his sons. In the last period of its existence, the Western Empire was subject to constant invasions of barbarians, and in 476 the once powerful state would be finally defeated by the barbarian commander Odoacer (about 431 - 496), who would rule only Italy, renouncing both the title of emperor and others. possessions of the Roman Empire. After the fall of Rome, great empires would arise one after another.
Byzantine Empire (IV - XV centuries)
Originates from the Eastern Roman Empire. When Odoacer overthrew the latter, he took away the dignity of power from him and sent them to Constantinople. There is only one Sun on earth, and there should also be one emperor - this is approximately the meaning attached to this act. The Byzantine Empire was located at the junction of Europe, Asia and Africa, its borders stretched from the Euphrates to the Danube. Christianity played a major role in the strengthening of Byzantium, which in 381 became the state religion of the entire Roman Empire. The Fathers of the Church argued that thanks to faith, not only a person is saved, but also society itself. Consequently, Byzantium is under the protection of the Lord and is obliged to lead other nations to salvation. Secular and spiritual power must be united in the name of a single goal. The Byzantine Empire is a state in which the idea of imperial power took on its most mature form. God is the ruler of the entire Universe, and the emperor presides over the Earthly Kingdom. Therefore, the power of the emperor is protected by God and is sacred. The Byzantine emperor had virtually unlimited power; he determined the internal and foreign policy, was the commander-in-chief of the army, the highest judge and at the same time a legislator. The Emperor of Byzantium is not only the head of state, but also the head of the Church, so he had to set an example of exemplary Christian piety. It is curious that the power of the emperor here was not hereditary from a legal point of view. The history of Byzantium knows examples when a person became its emperor not because of a crowned birth, but based on the results of his real merits.
Ottoman (Ottoman) Empire (1299 - 1922)
Usually historians count its existence from 1299, when the Ottoman state arose in the north-west of Anatolia, founded by its first Sultan Osman, the founder of the new dynasty. Soon Osman would conquer the entire west of Asia Minor, which would become a powerful platform for the further expansion of the Turkic tribes. It can be said that Ottoman Empire- This is Türkiye during the Sultanate period. But strictly speaking, the empire here emerged only in the 15th - 16th centuries, when Turkish conquests in Europe, Asia and Africa became very significant. Its heyday coincided with the collapse Byzantine Empire. This, of course, is not accidental: if it has decreased somewhere, then it will certainly increase elsewhere, as the law of conservation of energy and power on the Eurasian continent says. In the spring of 1453, as a result of a long siege and bloody battles, the troops of the Ottoman Turks under the leadership of Sultan Mehmed II occupied the capital of Byzantium, Constantinople. This victory would ensure that the Turks would secure a dominant position in the eastern Mediterranean for many years to come. The capital of the Ottoman Empire will be Constantinople (Istanbul). The Ottoman Empire would reach its highest point of influence and prosperity in the 16th century - during the reign of Suleiman I the Magnificent. By the beginning of the 17th century, the Ottoman state would become one of the most powerful in the world. The Empire controlled almost all of South-Eastern Europe, North Africa and Western Asia, it consisted of 32 provinces and many tributary states. The collapse of the Ottoman Empire will occur as a result of the First World War. Being allies of Germany, the Turks would be defeated, the sultanate would be abolished in 1922, and Turkey would become a republic in 1923.
British Empire (1497 - 1949)
The British Empire is the largest colonial state in the entire history of civilization. In the 30s of the twentieth century, the territory of the United Kingdom accounted for almost a quarter of the earth's landmass, and its population was a quarter of those living on the planet (it is no coincidence that English became the most authoritative language in the world). England's European conquests began with the invasion of Ireland, and intercontinental conquests with the capture of Newfoundland (1583), which became a springboard for expansion in North America. The success of British colonization was facilitated by the successful imperialist war that England waged with Spain, France, and Holland. At the very beginning of the 17th century, Britain's penetration into India began, and later England would take on Australia and New Zealand, North, Tropical and South Africa.
Britain and the colonies
After World War I, the League of Nations would give the United Kingdom a mandate to govern certain former colonies Ottoman and (including Iran and Palestine). However, the results of World War II significantly shifted the emphasis on the colonial issue. Britain, although it was among the winners, was forced to take out a huge loan from the United States to avoid bankruptcy. The USSR and the USA - the largest players in the political arena - were opponents of colonization. Meanwhile, liberation sentiments intensified in the colonies. In this situation, it was too difficult and expensive to maintain colonial rule. Unlike Portugal and France, England did not do this and transferred power to local governments. At the moment, Great Britain continues to maintain dominance over 14 territories.
Russian Empire (1721 - 1917)
After the end of the Northern War, when new lands and access to the Baltic were secured, Tsar Peter I accepted the title of Emperor of All Russia at the request of the Senate - supreme body state power established ten years earlier. In terms of area, the Russian Empire became the third (after the British and Mongolian empires) of ever existing state entities. Before the emergence of the State Duma in 1905, the power of the Russian emperor was not limited by anything other than Orthodox norms. Peter I, who strengthened the country, divided Russia into eight provinces. During the time of Catherine II, there were 50 of them, and by 1917, as a result of territorial expansion, their number increased to 78. Russia is an empire that included a number of modern sovereign states (Finland, Belarus, Ukraine, Transcaucasia and Central Asia). As a result of the February Revolution of 1917, the reign of the Romanov dynasty of Russian emperors ended, and in September of the same year Russia was proclaimed a republic.
Centrifugal tendencies are to blame
As we see, all the great empires collapsed. The centripetal forces that create them are sooner or later replaced by centrifugal tendencies, leading these states, if not to complete collapse, then to disintegration.
The history of mankind is inextricably linked with the constant struggle for territorial dominance and the increase of subject lands. Our top 10 greatest empires in history will tell you about the most powerful and developed states of the past.
10 Ottoman Empire
The empire was created by the Ottoman Turks in 1299 and was located in the northwest of Asia Minor. total area of all territories of the empire in 1683 was 5.2 million square meters. km. The population reached more than 35 million people. The Empire ruled most of the South of Eastern Europe, Western Asia and North Africa. It consisted of 32 provinces and many vassal states. Constant religious rivalries and competition from other empires weakened the Ottoman Empire, and in 1922 it ceased to exist.
9 Roman Empire
The empire was founded in 27 BC. e. and was the only state in history whose power extended to the entire Mediterranean coast, as well as to large territorial possessions in Europe. The total area of all its lands in 117 was 6.5 million square meters. km. The population in the same year reached 60 million people. The Roman Empire was overthrown by the Turks in 1453.
8 Portuguese colonial empire
The totality of overseas lands relative to continental Portugal, which were its colonies, formed the Portuguese Empire headed by it. The total area of all its territories was 10.4 million square meters. km. The empire was founded in 1415. At the height of its power, the empire had outposts in India, West Africa and South-East Asia. Napoleon's invasion of Portugal led to the loss of wealth and power of the empire. And in 1975 the empire ceased to exist.
7 Second French colonial empire
The empire began its existence in 1814. The total area of all its territories, including colonial possessions, in 1943 reached 13.5 million square meters. km., mainly in Asia and Africa. Two world wars shook the power of the empire, and its existence ended in 1962.
6 Yuan Empire
The Yuan Empire was a Mongol state. China occupied the bulk of this empire. The total area of all Yuan lands was 14 million square meters. km. The empire was founded in 1271. The state reached its peak in 1310. Around this period of time, the population was 90 million people. The Yuan Empire ended its existence in 1368 as a result of the so-called. Red Turban Revolts.
5 Great Qing Empire
The Great Qing Empire became the last empire of monarchical China. It was founded on the territory of Manchuria in 1644. Just 30 years later, all the lands of China and part of Central Asia came under its rule. The total area of Qing territories in 1790 was 14.7 million square meters. km., and the population in 1850 reached 432 million people. As a result of the Xinhai Revolution, which occurred at the end of 1911, the last emperor, Pu Yi, abdicated the throne in February 1912, and the empire was overthrown.
4 Spanish Empire
The Spanish Empire was a collection of territories and colonies in America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Oceania. The existence of the Spanish Empire lasted from 1492 to 1976. At the height of the empire in 1790, there were 20 million square meters under Spanish possessions. km. lands on which 60 million people lived at that time.
3 Russian empire
The Russian Empire, which existed from 1721 to 1917, became the largest continental monarchy. The total area of Russian territories in 1895 was 22.8 million square meters. km., and the population of the empire is 178.4 million people. The peculiarity of the Russian Empire was the constant expansion of territories.
2 Mongol Empire
The existence of the Mongol Empire lasted from 1206 to 1368. During his reign, Genghis Khan captured all of Eastern Europe right up to the Sea of Japan. The total area of Mongolian possessions in 1279 was 33.2 million square meters. km. The population in the same year reached more than 110 million people. In the 14th century, the empire was gripped by serious internal conflicts, which led to the division of territories into separate uluses. This led to the loss of conquered territories and the collapse of the great empire.
1 British Empire
The British Empire, which existed from 1497 to 1949, was the largest power. The total area of all lands, taking into account colonies on all continents, according to data for 1921, reached 36.6 million square meters. km. The heyday of the empire occurred in 1919-1922. At that time, the total population was 480 million people. Two world wars brought great ruin to the state. The empire overcame the crisis, but lost all its colonies and world domination.
Great empires have come and gone over the centuries. But each left an indelible mark on the history of mankind.
The history of mankind is a continuous struggle for territorial dominance. Great empires arose on political map world, then disappeared from it. Some of them were destined to leave an indelible mark behind them.
Persian Empire (Achaemenid Empire, 550 – 330 BC)
Cyrus II is considered the founder of the Persian Empire. He began his conquests in 550 BC. e. with the subjugation of Media, after which Armenia, Parthia, Cappadocia and the Lydian kingdom were conquered. Did not become an obstacle to the expansion of the empire of Cyrus and Babylon, whose powerful walls fell in 539 BC. e.
While conquering neighboring territories, the Persians tried not to destroy the conquered cities, but, if possible, to preserve them. Cyrus restored captured Jerusalem, like many Phoenician cities, facilitating the return of Jews from Babylonian captivity.
The Persian Empire under Cyrus extended its possessions from Central Asia to the Aegean Sea. Only Egypt remained unconquered. The country of the pharaohs submitted to the heir of Cyrus, Cambyses II. However, the empire reached its peak under Darius I, who switched from conquests to domestic policy. In particular, the king divided the empire into 20 satrapies, which completely coincided with the territories of the captured states.
In 330 BC. e. The weakening Persian Empire fell under the onslaught of the troops of Alexander the Great.
Roman Empire (27 BC – 476)
Ancient Rome was the first state in which the ruler received the title of emperor. Beginning with Octavian Augustus, the 500-year history of the Roman Empire had a direct impact on European civilization and also left a cultural mark on the countries of North Africa and the Middle East.
The uniqueness of Ancient Rome is that it was the only state whose possessions included the entire Mediterranean coast.
At the height of the Roman Empire, its territories extended from British Isles to the Persian Gulf. According to historians, by 117 the population of the empire reached 88 million people, which was approximately 25% of the total number of inhabitants of the planet.
Architecture, construction, art, law, economics, military affairs, the principles of government of Ancient Rome - this is what the foundation of the entire European civilization is based on. It was in imperial Rome that Christianity accepted the status of a state religion and began its spread throughout the world.
Byzantine Empire (395 – 1453)
The Byzantine Empire has no equal in the length of its history. Originating at the end of antiquity, it existed until the end of the European Middle Ages. For more than a thousand years, Byzantium was a kind of connecting link between the civilizations of the East and West, influencing both the states of Europe and Asia Minor.
But if Western European and Middle Eastern countries inherited the rich material culture of Byzantium, then the Old Russian state turned out to be the successor to its spirituality. Constantinople fell, but the Orthodox world found its new capital in Moscow.
Located at the crossroads of trade routes, rich Byzantium was a coveted land for neighboring states. Having reached its maximum borders in the first centuries after the collapse of the Roman Empire, then it was forced to defend its possessions. In 1453, Byzantium could not resist a more powerful enemy - the Ottoman Empire. With the capture of Constantinople, the road to Europe was open for the Turks.
Arab Caliphate (632-1258)
As a result of Muslim conquests in the 7th–9th centuries, a theocratic Islamic state arose in the territory of the entire Middle East region, as well as certain regions of Transcaucasia, Central Asia, North Africa and Spain Arab Caliphate. The period of the Caliphate went down in history as the “Golden Age of Islam”, as the time of the highest flowering of Islamic science and culture.
One of the caliphs Arab state Umar I purposefully secured the character of a militant church for the Caliphate, encouraging religious zeal in his subordinates and prohibiting them from owning land property in the conquered countries. Umar motivated this by the fact that “the interests of the landowner attract him more to peaceful activities than to war.”
In 1036, the invasion of the Seljuk Turks was disastrous for the Caliphate, but the defeat of the Islamic state was completed by the Mongols.
Caliph An-Nasir, wanting to expand his possessions, turned to Genghis Khan for help, and unknowingly opened the way for the destruction of the Muslim East by a Mongol horde of thousands.
Mongol Empire (1206–1368)
The Mongol Empire is the largest state formation in history by territory.
During the period of its power, towards the end of the 13th century, the empire extended from the Sea of Japan to the banks of the Danube. The total area of the Mongols' possessions reached 38 million square meters. km.
Given the enormous size of the empire, managing it from the capital, Karakorum, was almost impossible. It is no coincidence that after the death of Genghis Khan in 1227, the process of gradual division of the conquered territories into separate uluses began, the most significant of which was Golden Horde.
The economic policy of the Mongols in the occupied lands was primitive: its essence boiled down to the imposition of tribute on the conquered peoples. Everything collected went to support the needs of a huge army, according to some sources, reaching half a million people. The Mongol cavalry was the most deadly weapon of the Genghisids, which not many armies could resist.
Inter-dynastic strife destroyed the empire - it was they who stopped the expansion of the Mongols to the West. This was soon followed by the loss of the conquered territories and the capture of Karakorum by Ming dynasty troops.
Holy Roman Empire (962-1806)
The Holy Roman Empire is an interstate entity that existed in Europe from 962 to 1806. The core of the empire was Germany, which was joined by the Czech Republic, Italy, the Netherlands, as well as some regions of France during the period of the highest prosperity of the state.
For almost the entire period of the empire's existence, its structure had the character of a theocratic feudal state, in which the emperors claimed supreme power in the Christian world. However, the struggle with the papal throne and the desire to possess Italy significantly weakened the central power of the empire.
In the 17th century, Austria and Prussia moved to leading positions in the Holy Roman Empire. But very soon the antagonism of two influential members of the empire, which resulted in a policy of conquest, threatened their integrity common house. The end of the empire in 1806 was marked by the strengthening France led by Napoleon.
Ottoman Empire (1299–1922)
In 1299, Osman I created a Turkic state in the Middle East, which was destined to exist for more than 600 years and radically influence the fate of the countries of the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions. The fall of Constantinople in 1453 marked the date when the Ottoman Empire finally gained a foothold in Europe.
The period of the greatest power of the Ottoman Empire occurred in the 16th-17th centuries, but the state achieved its greatest conquests under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
The borders of the empire of Suleiman I extended from Eritrea in the south to the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in the north, from Algeria in the west to the Caspian Sea in the east.
The period from the end of the 16th century to the beginning of the 20th century was marked by bloody military conflicts between the Ottoman Empire and Russia. Territorial disputes between the two states mainly revolved around Crimea and Transcaucasia. They were brought to an end by the First World War, as a result of which the Ottoman Empire, divided between the Entente countries, ceased to exist.
British Empire (1497–1949)
The British Empire is the largest colonial power both in terms of territory and population.
The empire reached its greatest scale by the 30s of the 20th century: the land area of the United Kingdom, including its colonies, totaled 34 million 650 thousand square meters. km., which accounted for approximately 22% of the earth's land. Total number The population of the empire reached 480 million people - every fourth inhabitant of the Earth was a subject of the British Crown.
The success of British colonial policy was facilitated by many factors: a strong army and navy, developed industry, and the art of diplomacy. The expansion of the empire significantly influenced global geopolitics. First of all, this is the spread of British technology, trade, language, and forms of government throughout the world.
The decolonization of Britain occurred after the end of the Second World War. Although the country was among the victorious states, it found itself on the verge of bankruptcy. It was only thanks to an American loan of $3.5 billion that Great Britain was able to overcome the crisis, but at the same time lost world dominance and all its colonies.
Russian Empire (1721–1917)
The history of the Russian Empire dates back to October 22, 1721, after Peter I accepted the title of All-Russian Emperor. From that time until 1905, the monarch who became the head of the state was endowed with absolute power.
In terms of area, the Russian Empire was second only to the Mongol and British empires - 21,799,825 square meters. km, and was the second (after British) in terms of population - about 178 million people.
Constant expansion of territory – characteristic feature Russian Empire. But if the advance to the east was mostly peaceful, then in the west and south Russia had to prove its territorial claims through numerous wars - with Sweden, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, the Ottoman Empire, Persia, and the British Empire.
The growth of the Russian Empire has always been viewed with particular caution by the West. The negative perception of Russia was facilitated by the appearance of the so-called “Testament of Peter the Great,” a document fabricated in 1812 by French political circles. “The Russian state must establish power over all of Europe” is one of the key phrases of the Testament, which will haunt the minds of Europeans for a long time.
10
- Square: 13 million km 2
- Highest bloom: 720 – 750
A feudal state that existed from 661 to 750. The ruling dynasty is the Umayyads. The capital was in Damascus. The head of state is the caliph. Spiritual and secular power was concentrated in his hands, which was passed on by inheritance. The Umayyad Caliphate continued the aggressive policy of the Righteous Caliphate and conquered North Africa, part of the Iberian Peninsula, Central Asia, Sind, Tabaristan and Jurjan.
9
- Square: 13 million km 2
- Highest bloom: 557
One of the largest ancient states in Asia in the history of mankind, created by Turkic tribes led by rulers from the Ashina clan. During the period of greatest expansion (end of the 6th century) it controlled the territories of China (Manchuria), Mongolia, Altai, East Turkestan, West Turkestan (Central Asia), Kazakhstan and the North Caucasus. In addition, the tributaries of the Kaganate were Sasanian Iran, the Chinese states of Northern Zhou, Northern Qi from 576 and from the same year the Turkic Kaganate was torn away from Byzantium North Caucasus and Crimea.
8
- Square: 14 million km 2
- Highest bloom: 1310
Mongol state, the main part of whose territory was China (1271-1368). Founded by Genghis Khan's grandson, the Mongol Khan Kublai Khan, who completed the conquest of China in 1279. The dynasty fell as a result of the Red Turban Rebellion of 1351-1368.
7
- Square: 14.5 million km 2
- Highest bloom: 1721
The official name of the Russian state in the period from 1547 to 1721. The predecessor of the Russian kingdom was Appanage Rus', as well as Muscovy. In 1547, Prince Ivan IV (the Terrible) was crowned the first Russian Tsar. He dissolved all fiefs and declared himself the only king. The Russian kingdom thus received centralized control and hope for stability in the country.
6
- Square: 14.7 million km 2
- Highest bloom: 1790
Was the last imperial dynasty of China. She ruled the country from 1644 to 1912, with a brief restoration in 1917 (the latter lasting only 11 days). The Qing era was preceded by the Ming Dynasty and followed by the Republic of China. The multicultural Qing Empire lasted for almost three centuries and formed the territorial base for the modern Chinese state. Qing China reached largest sizes in the 18th century, when he extended his power to 18 traditional provinces, as well as the territories of modern Northeast China, Inner Mongolia, Outer Mongolia, Xinjiang and Tibet.
5
- Square: 20 million km 2
- Highest bloom: 1790
The set of territories and colonies that were under the direct control of Spain in Europe, America, Africa, Asia and Oceania. The Spanish Empire, at the height of its power, was one of the largest empires in world history. Its creation is associated with the beginning of the era of the Great geographical discoveries, during which it became one of the first colonial empires. The Spanish Empire existed from the 15th century until the end of the 20th century.
4
- Square: 22.4 million km 2
- Highest bloom: 1945 – 1991
A state that existed from 1922 to 1991 on the territory of Eastern Europe, Northern, and parts of Central and Eastern Asia. The USSR occupied almost 1/6 of the Earth's inhabited landmass; at the time of its collapse it was the largest country in the world by area. It was formed on the territory that by 1917 was occupied by the Russian Empire without Finland, part of the Polish Kingdom and some other territories.
3
- Square: 23.7 million km 2
- Highest bloom: 1866
Was the largest continental monarchy that ever existed. According to the general census of 1897, the population was 129 million people. During the February Revolution of 1917, the monarchy collapses. During the Civil War of 1918-1921, a general collapse of statehood occurred on the territory of the former Russian Empire Up to 80 short-lived states are formed, by 1924 most of this territory is united in the USSR.
2
- Square: 38 million km 2
- Highest bloom: 1265 – 1361
A state that emerged in the 13th century as a result of the conquests of Genghis Khan and his successors and included the largest contiguous territory in world history from the Danube to the Sea of Japan and from Novgorod to Southeast Asia. During its heyday, it included vast territories of Central Asia, Southern Siberia, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, China and Tibet. In the second half of the 13th century, the empire began to disintegrate into uluses, headed by the Chingizids. The largest fragments of Great Mongolia were the Yuan Empire, the Ulus of Jochi (Golden Horde), the state of the Hulaguids and the Chagatai Ulus.
1
- Square: 42.75 million km 2
- Highest bloom: 1918
The largest state that has ever existed in the history of mankind, with colonies on all inhabited continents. Total number The empire's population was approximately 480 million people. Currently, the United Kingdom retains sovereignty over 14 territories outside the British Isles. In 2002 they received the status of British Overseas Territories. Some of these areas are uninhabited. The rest have varying degrees of self-government and are dependent on Britain for foreign affairs and defense.
Seizing power over the world is the dream of at least half of the villains from comic books and superhero blockbusters. Some less bloodthirsty individuals (controversial, of course) go about conquering new lands the old-fashioned way: send dreamers or adventurers to explore, and then take the territory from others. However, sometimes (okay, it’s extremely rare) conquerors offer mutually beneficial cooperation and peaceful coexistence. In the modern world, no one has taken it upon themselves to lead a new empire (underground and criminal grounds do not count), but back in the middle of the twentieth century, no one thought that the Age of Empires had come to an end. Let's start with 500 BC and follow the milestones of the history of the 25 most grandiose empires of our planet. To simplify understanding, the selected dates indicate the peak of the state's development. The superpowers of the 20th century were not included in the list because they did not call themselves “empires.”
Achaemenid Empire - 500 BC
The Persians, so much disliked by the Spartans, did a lot of good
Being on the 18th line of the hit parade of empires with the most large area, The Achaemenid Power (or the Persian Empire at number one) is already impressive. At the zenith of their power, in 550 before the birth of Jesus Christ, the Achaemenid territory reached an area of 3.5 million square kilometers. Under their rule were the lands of almost all modern states of the Middle East and part modern Russia. No less surprising is the fact that under Cyrus the Great, architecture and culture rapidly developed in the empire, roads and post offices were built everywhere. The progress is commendable. And every self-respecting ruler did the same.
Empire of Alexander the Great - 323 BC
The Great Conquest of the Great Alexander
Alexander the Great created a state that overthrew the Achaemenid Empire from the pedestal of power (hello Sparta) and completed the construction of a Hellenistic powerful union, glorifying the ancient Greek civilization for centuries, along with Aristotle and mass orgies. At the height of its power, the Macedonian Empire covered 3.5% of the landmass, making it the 21st largest in human history (the losing Persians did surpass Alexander, but that didn't help them much).
Mauryan Empire - 250 BC
Don’t you want imperialism the Indian way?
The death of Alexander the Great came as a complete surprise to his comrades, who were mired in squabbling over pieces of the empire. At this time, distant lands were left to their own devices, which the local rulers did not miss the opportunity to take advantage of: India and the surrounding territories were captured by the Mauryan Empire, which as a result became the most powerful state entity on the Hindustan Peninsula. Under the leadership of the wise and prudent Ashoka the Great, the Mauryan Empire occupied about 3 million square kilometers and was the 23rd largest empire in the annals of human development.
Xiongnu - 209 BC
The possible ancestors of the Huns did not waste time
During the 4th and 3rd centuries BC. China was divided into several small fiefdoms, constantly at war with each other. Of course, wars among sedentary peoples attracted the steppe people like vultures. The nomadic Xiongnu tribes easily carried out raids on the provinces in the north, weakened by feudal fragmentation. At its height, the Xiongnu Empire occupied 6% of the landmass and was the 10th greatest power in the annals of history. She was so invincible that it took the Han Dynasty decades of compromises and marriage agreements to keep the invaders in line.
Western Han Dynasty - 50 BC
the period that gave rise to Chinese sovereignty
Speaking about the Han Dynasty, we should not forget about its Western part, which reached the peak of power a century after the Eastern. Of course, its territories are incomparable with the conquests of the Xiongnu, but its area of 3.8 million square kilometers with a population of 57 million people makes one feel respected and put the Western Han at 17th place in the hit parade of empires. In their desire to expand their borders, the Han pushed the Xiongnu to the north and captured the territories of modern Vietnam and Korea. Thanks to the diplomatic talent of the diplomat and traveler Zhang Qian, the dynasty's contacts were expanded to Rome, and the Great Silk Road was opened.
Eastern Han Dynasty - 100
The youngest brother from the Han clan
The Eastern Han Dynasty lasted for nearly two centuries, through riots, conspiracies, political crises, and a faltering economy. Despite its apparent weakness, this empire was the 12th largest in history, leapfrogging its predecessor. Dynastic territories occupied 4.2 million square kilometers (4.4% of the land area).
Roman Empire - 117
Hail Caesar and other imperial habits - everything came from Rome
Due to its wide popularity, the Roman Empire is considered almost the coolest in the world (thanks to American cinema and chroniclers of the Caesars) - legions of soldiers, the Roman Senate, an almost modern standard of living and other wonders of the Dream Factory. By far, at the height of its power, Rome presided over the most extensive and sophisticated political-social structure in Western civilization. The total area of the lands subject to the Senate and the Emperor did not exceed 2.6 million square kilometers, placing the homeland of Gaius Julius Caesar only in 24th place in the list of largest empires. Anyway, modern world I wouldn’t be myself if it weren’t for the ancient Roman state.
Turkic Khaganate - 557
An empire that came out of nowhere
The Turkic Khaganate occupied the territories that are now central and northern China. The history of the origin of the conquering tribe is unclear, but just like the Xiongnu people 600 years before them, the nomads subjugated the territory of Inner Asia, the Silk Road and by 557 owned about 4% of the land surface area. This puts them in 15th place on the list of largest empires.
One of the largest: The Righteous Caliphate - 655
First Muslim state
The Righteous Caliphate became the first state formation in history based on the adherence to religion. IN in this case, Islam. It was born less than half a century after the death of the Prophet Muhammad in order to unite disparate Muslim communities. Very little time separated the Caliphate from power over Egypt, Syria and the territory of the former Persian Empire. At the time of its greatest power, the area of this state was almost 4 million square kilometers, making it the 14th largest in the entire history of the human race.
Umayyad Caliphate - 720
The splendor and grandeur of the Arab world
The Caliphate became one of the four largest state entities in the Arab world. He grew up during the civil war among the Muslim movements in 661. In addition to control over the lands of the Middle East, the territories of North Africa and Southern Europe were in the hands of the caliph. This power was home to 29% of the planet's inhabitants (62 million people) and its area was 7.45% of the planetary total, making the Umayyad Caliphate the eighth largest empire in history.
Abbasid Caliphate - 750
Empire created by the descendants of the prophet
The age of power of the Umayyads turned out to be short-lived: the caliphate lasted 30 years, and then was captured by the Abbasids, who were led into rebellion by the descendants of the younger uncle of the Prophet Muhammad (as they themselves declared, of course). According to the Abbasids, their “purer” bloodline gave them the right to rule over the faithful. After a successful coup in 750 AD, the Abbasid Caliphate lasted four centuries and acquired many alliances, including with China. Although this empire did not exceed the size of the Umayyad Caliphate, the descendants of Muhammad controlled about 8 million square kilometers of land, which puts their possessions at seventh place in the list of the greatest empires. However, power and size did not help the state, which fell under the onslaught of the hordes of Genghis Khan’s army in 1206.
Tibetan Empire - 800
Diplomacy is Tibet's main weapon
At the time of its heyday, no more than 3% of the world’s population lived on the territory of the Tibetan Empire. And this is what in the West full swing gigantic Muslim states were born and died, and in the East the Tang dynasty, consisting of a monolithic alliance with the Arabs, ruled with might and main. We can say that Tibet at that time was surrounded by a pack of predators who dreamed of snatching a piece from it. And only thanks to diplomacy and good military training of soldiers, the Tibetan Empire lasted 200 years. Oddly enough, it was the growing influence of Buddhism and civil war that destroyed her, not external enemies.
Tang Dynasty - 820
The period that marked the dawn of Chinese culture and art
The Tang Dynasty was the first state entity in China to choose cosmopolitanism and exchange of cultural experiences with other powers. The invention dates back to the Tang Golden Age printing press, engravings, the flowering of painting and literature. Two poets, Li Bai and Du Fu, considered among the greatest in Chinese history, lived during the Tang Dynasty. This empire did not last long (in comparison with other dynasties of China) - only three centuries, from 618 to 907, but its contribution to world culture and art cannot be underestimated. The territories of the dynasty accounted for 3.6% of the total area.
Mongol Empire - 1270
One of the most big empires and families
Although the name of Genghis Khan is known to almost every inhabitant of the Earth, not everyone understands how huge his empire was. At its peak, the Mongol Empire covered an area of more than 19 million square kilometers (compared to the size of four Roman Empires or three US territories). Therefore, it is not surprising that the state of Genghis Khan “took silver” in the ranking of the largest powers in history.
Golden Horde - 1310
The main enemy of medieval Rus'
Genghis Khan was far from a fool and clearly understood that his power rested on the authority of the leader. To ensure stability and prosperity for the empire, he divided the territories under his control among his many children, thereby ensuring the law of succession to the throne and the division of power. Thus, even individual parts of the Khanate were powerful state formations. The most striking and powerful “branch” of the Mongol Empire was the Golden Horde, which occupied 4.03% of the world’s landmass.
Yuan Dynasty - 1310
An empire that sank into oblivion without reaching maturity
Thanks to the military talents of one of Genghis Khan's many grandsons, first the northern lands of China, and then the rest of its territory, were united under the rule of the Yuan dynasty. By 1310, the Yuan Empire had become the largest independent part of the Mongol Empire, covering an area of 8.5 million square kilometers. To the shame of the descendants of the great conqueror, Yuan also became one of the short-lived empires: riots that flared up throughout the 14th century led to the overthrow of the authorities already in 1368.
Ming Dynasty - 1450
The world's largest fleet is a clear reason for pride
The Ming Dynasty, as one might expect, grew up on the ruins of a bygone empire - the Yuan Dynasty. Although pressed from the north by the Mongols, the Ming still controlled 4.36% of the land area and ranked 13th in the list of major powers. This period also became known for the construction of the largest Chinese (and world) fleet and the rapid development of maritime trade with almost the entire world.
Ottoman Empire - 1683
The Turkish state has always been stable (until now)
Istanbul at that time was still called Constantinople, becoming the capital of the Turkish (or Ottoman) Empire in spite of the entire Christian world. And although the area of this power was not as large as its predecessors, the Ottoman Empire showed miracles of amazing “survivability”. This power successfully developed, prospered and fought for more than six centuries, fighting off attacks from the West and the East from the 13th century, until it fell during the First World War, giving way to the Turkish Republic in 1922.
Qing Dynasty - 1790
The last gasps of the empire before the red era
The Qing, the last imperial dynasty of China, left an impressive legacy: 10% of the planet's territory and almost 400 million inhabitants, including Thailand and Korea. The Qing dynasty held power for nearly four centuries until uprisings in February 1912 prompted the last emperor to abdicate his throne. It was these events that allowed the birth of the only country in the world that successfully used a combination of socialist rule with a capitalist economy - the People's Republic of China (PRC).
Spanish Empire - 1810
Temporary Queen of the Seas
Spain, for a long time remaining in the shadow of European powers, by the end of the 18th century it owned vast territories throughout the Earth. Thanks to its powerful fleet (the long-invincible Spanish Armada), Madrid controlled most of the Caribbean islands, almost all of South America, part of Central and North America, Africa, Oceania, the Middle East and even Europe.
Portuguese Empire - 1820
European old man-long-liver among maritime powers
Portuguese colonial empire became the first state with developed communications between the metropolis and overseas provinces, but did not grow to the size of the Spanish Empire - it had “only” 3.69% of the land area at its disposal. At the same time, the Portuguese Empire became the longest-living in Europe: for six centuries it claimed its rights to lands outside the territorial borders of the state and ceased to exist only on December 20, 1999.
Brazilian Empire - 1889
Gray horse among world powers
Originating as part of Portugal's colonial empire, the Brazilian Empire began its journey in 1822 by declaring independence. The young state immediately attracted attention, which gave rise to military conflicts with Uruguay and Great Britain. Oddly enough, Brazil emerged victorious from both disputes, declaring itself to the whole world as a country with a progressive view of governance and foreign policy. By 1889, the Brazilian Empire occupied most of South America (7 million square kilometers).
Russian Empire - 1895
Land of vast territories and great victories
The Russian Empire became a colossal state that officially existed from 1721 to 1917. Born as an agricultural country with ancient history and culture, to 19th century Russia became a powerful power, ranking with the most developed countries of the time, raising its population level from 15.5 to 171 million people (in 1895). Not only the original Russian lands came under the rule of the Russian emperor, but also Finland, the Baltic states, Poland, and almost all of Asia. Russia received “bronze” and an honorable third place in the ranking of the largest empires in human history.
Second Empire (France) – 1920
Another attempt by the French to become rulers of the planet
In order to compete with Spain, Britain, Portugal, and the United Provinces, France had to go a long way in colonizing overseas lands. The first step towards this was the conquest of Algeria in 1830. By the 20s of the 20th century, France owned lands in Africa, Southeast Asia, South America and in the Middle East. 7.7% of the world's territory and 5% of the world's population came under French rule.
British Empire - 1920
The greatest power of all time
This may be obvious, but it is no less surprising: the British Empire was the most powerful and largest empire for the entire existence of man on planet Earth. The total area of land subject to the English crown was 26 million sq. km (and this is more than 30% greater than the area of the Mongol Empire). A quarter of the world's population was under British rule. The result of such global expansion was the penetration of the English language and culture into all, even the most remote corners of the world.
Most people consider the handover of Hong Kong to China in 1997 to be the end of British imperialism. However, if you look at the world map with an open mind, Britain still controls most of the world, although it does so more unobtrusively. And perhaps it was Foggy Albion that achieved world domination.
Of course, history also knows other empires - the Aztecs, Mayans, Toltecs, ancient Egyptian and Greek civilizations, Knossos and Mycenaean culture, the Etruscan empire. However, all of them, although they made an incredible contribution to culture, art, science and the development of humanity, were not outstanding in size. They, ancient civilizations, as a source of wisdom and progress, should be discussed separately.