شاه اسماعیل اول, also known as Shah Ismail I, was the founder of the Safavid dynasty in Persia. He reigned from 1501 to 1524 and is known for establishing Shia Islam as the state religion, which significantly influenced the cultural and religious landscape of Iran. His leadership marked the beginning of a new era in Persian history. Ismail was born in 1487 and became a military leader at a young age. He successfully united various tribes and regions, expanding his territory across modern-day Iran. His reign is noted for its contributions to Persian art, architecture, and literature, which flourished under his rule.