Ismail I was the founder of the Safavid dynasty in Persia, ruling from 1501 to 1524. He is known for establishing Twelver Shia Islam as the state religion, which significantly shaped the cultural and religious landscape of Iran. His reign marked the beginning of a unified Iranian state after centuries of fragmentation. Ismail I was born in 1487 and became a military leader at a young age. He successfully conquered Tabriz, declaring himself Shah. His leadership was characterized by military campaigns and efforts to consolidate power, leading to the expansion of the Safavid influence across Persia and beyond.