Final answer:
The fall of Islamic Empires in the 1700s was due to a mix of internal divisions, like the Shi'ite/Sunni conflict, fragmentation of power, failure to keep pace with Western scientific and industrial advancements, European colonialism, military defeats such as at Lepanto, and changing global trade and economic conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Factors Leading to the Fall of Islamic Empires in the 1700s
The decline of Islamic Empires in the 1700s can be attributed to several factors. These include the failure to undergo radical change in politics and culture, the scientific and commercial advancements being insufficient to spark a revolution, and the impact of European colonialism and industrialization. The Shi'ite/Sunni division also weakened internal unity, causing in-fighting rather than cooperation within the Islamic world.
Furthermore, fragmentation was a major issue, with the Seljuk, Fatimid, and other conflicts contributing to a divided Islamic realm. The Battle of Manzikert was a critical point leading to the weakening of the Islamic front, allowing for European advances. Additionally, as European nations were able to fortify their naval and military capabilities—exemplified by the defeat of the Ottoman navy at Lepanto—this further signaled the decline of Islamic maritime and territorial power. The Ottoman Empire's slow decline post-Suleiman also resulted from territorial overextension and difficulties competing with the naval might of European powers.
Compounding these issues was the trade and utilization of slavery, which altered economic dynamics. Europe's conquests, beginning with the Crusades and extending into colonization, eroded Islamic dominion. The economic and military successes that had previously characterized Islamic empires slowly deteriorated against a backdrop of changing global dynamics.