The Role of Influential Dynasties and Local Officials related to the Urban Development and Political Centrality of Khuzestan in Safavid Era

Shooshtar considered as one of the most significant cities of Khuzestan in Safavid era was selected by the governors due to its geographical, military and strategic position. The development of new towns in Shooshtar and around it by the Safavid local rulers led to its more prosperity. However, the entrance of various tribes including Qezelbash Turks (Shamloo, Roomloo, Afshar, Stajloo, Turkman, Zulqadr), Joqtay, Charkes, Gorji, Sheikhs from Jebal e- Amel region, Jazayeri and Kalantar nobles led to too much tribal and population tensions in this city and at the end of this era, the happening of natural disasters such as flood left some negative effects on the political and social status of Shooshtar. This research is to illustrate the political and social status of Shooshtar and to indicate how the influential dynasties took role in this city as the political center of Khuzestan at that time. The findings of research demonstrate that the influential families of nobles, Turkish and Gorji tribes were of determinative role in relation to the political development of this city considering the tribal origin, ethnical benefits, professional position, as well as social- religious values.