Which Persian dynasty is known for establishing Twelver Shiism as the state religion?

The Safavid dynasty is renowned for establishing Twelver Shiism as the state religion of Persia in the early 16th century. Founded by Shah Ismail I, the Safavid rulers implemented a series of reforms that solidified Shiite Islam's prominence in a region that was predominantly Sunni. This shift not only unified the diverse population under a single religious identity but also created a powerful political entity that opposed the Sunni Ottomans and other neighboring states.

By promoting Twelver Shiism, the Safavids established a distinct Iranian identity and influenced the region’s religious landscape significantly. This decision marked the beginning of a long-standing rivalry between Sunni and Shiite Muslims, and it had lasting implications for the political, social, and cultural dynamics in Iran and beyond. The dynasty's efforts to convert the populace and the creation of institutions to support Shiite scholarship solidified the legacy of Twelver Shiism in Iran.