Which of the following describes a major difference between the ottoman and safavid empires? a. the ottoman empire discouraged the development of sikhism, while the safavid empire encouraged it. b. the ottoman empire was controlled by sunni muslims, while the safavid empire was ruled by shia muslims. c. the ottoman empire was known as a "gunpowder empire," while the safavid empire never developed gunpowder. d. the ottoman empire persecuted religious minorities, while the safavid empire was built upon religious tolerance.

The correct answer is B) The Ottoman Empire was controlled by Sunni Muslims while the Safavid Empire was ruled by Shia Muslims.

The statement that describes a major difference between the Ottoman and Safavid Empire is that the Ottoman Empire was controlled by Sunni Muslims while the Safavid Empire was ruled by Shia Muslims.

In the Ottoman Caliphate, Islam was the official religion. Muslims of any background had the same rights under the Muslim court. In the case of the Safavid Empire, most of its troops were Shia Muslims, like the Shia Turkoman, Iranian, Soldiers, and Persian ones.

the answer is false.