Political Turmoil

Safavid power was based on the Kizilbash (Shiite Turkmen) tribesmen of Asia Minor who originally defeated the Ak Koyunlu. Unfortunately, the clans were unruly, constantly fighting each other and vying for control of the Shah. Under Abbas they were kept on a tight leash, but with his passing Persia was once more plagued by their infighting. Eventually their power waned, but they were only to be replaced by rebellious warlords from Afghanistan and Baluchistan in the 18th century.