A Comparative Study of Iran’s Political Conditions during the Reigns of Shah Abbas I of the Safavid Dynasty and Nader Shah Afshar

Abstract

The present study conducts a comparative analysis of Iran’s political conditions during the reigns of Shah Abbas I of the Safavid dynasty and Nader Shah Afshar. This research aims to identify structural similarities and differences in Iran’s political order and to examine their consequences, employing a comparative–analytical method and drawing on library-based sources. The findings indicate that despite apparent similarities in military approaches, there were fundamental differences in the modes of governance adopted by these two rulers. By relying on political legitimacy and pursuing a balanced approach to military, administrative, and economic reforms, Shah Abbas succeeded in creating a period of stability and prosperity. In contrast, despite his remarkable military victories, Nader Shah, due to an excessive concentration on military affairs and neglect of other dimensions of governance, failed to establish durable governmental structures. The results also suggest that in the realm of foreign policy, both rulers faced similar challenges in their confrontations with the Ottoman Empire. Shah Abbas, by adopting a phased policy—initially focusing on stabilizing the eastern frontiers and subsequently reclaiming western territories—achieved greater success, whereas Nader Shah, despite his military triumphs, was largely unsuccessful in resolving sectarian disputes with the Ottomans and in establishing a lasting peace. With regard to internal rebellions, a significant difference can be observed in the crisis-management strategies of the two rulers. Shah Abbas employed more flexible policies and in some cases even granted amnesty to rebels, while Nader Shah predominantly resorted to harsh repression, which in turn intensified public discontent.