One way in which ethnic divisions affected the development of land-based empires was through the creation of distinct cultural and social hierarchies within the empire.
Ethnic divisions in land-based empires often resulted in the establishment of social classes or castes based on ethnic backgrounds, such as in the Mughal Empire in India, where the ruling class was Central Asian and the majority population consisted of diverse ethnic groups like Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs. This division led to a social hierarchy where individuals of different ethnic backgrounds had different rights, privileges, and access to resources.
Ethnic divisions could also lead to tensions and conflicts within the empire, fueling resentment and power struggles. For example, the Ottoman Empire experienced conflicts between various ethnic and religious groups, contributing to its decline. Ethnic divisions also influenced the expansion and governance of land-based empires, as they often incorporated conquered territories with diverse ethnic populations. Policies of assimilation, encouraging cultural and linguistic homogeneity, or greater autonomy and respect for diverse ethnic identities could have significant implications for the development and longevity of land-based empires. Understanding the impact of ethnic divisions is crucial for comprehending the complexities of historical empires and their legacies.