Seljuqs (Persia, Iraq, Syria), 431-590 / 1040-1194

The Seljuq Empire (1040–1194) was a powerful Turko-Persian state that ruled over Persia, Iraq, and Syria. It played a crucial role in the revival of Sunni Islam, fostered Persian culture, and defended the Islamic world against Crusaders. The Seljuqs laid the foundation for later Islamic empires and greatly influenced the region's political and cultural landscape.