Since the dawn of civilisation and the formation of empires in ancient history, one of the enduring and fascinating questions has been which dynasty was the longest lasting? There has been vast speculation and debate as to what empires have held the title, but there are a few that can be considered the most influential and impressive, depending on the criteria chosen.
Considered by many to be the longest continuous monarchy, the Chinese Imperial dynasty is often described as the longest lasting in history. Starting in 221 BCE and ending in 1912, the Chinese Imperial dynasty lasted over 2000 years. It is believed to have been so successful due to the power and influence of leaders like Shi Huangdi (226BCE-210BCE), Wu Di (156BCE-87BCE), and Kangxi, who brought stability and order to China.
The Ottoman Empire was a major power from 1299–1922 and its rule spread throughout the Middle East and North Africa. The Ottomans were declared an empire in 1367, and were able to bring this level of government to the territory until their collapse. This was mostly thanks to leaders like Suleiman the Magnificent (1520-1566). It is considered one of the longest lasting empires due to its 1223-year rule.
The Holy Roman Empire was a political union that followed the rise of the Germanic states in what is now Germany, Austria, Czech Republic and Switzerland. Spanning 800 years, the empire was highly influential in the region’s politics, particularly in its heyday during the 16th and 17th centuries. This was due to its powerful Frankish predecessors such as Charlemagne (742-814 CE) and Otto I (912-973 CE).
Also known as the ‘Omayyad caliphate’, this Islamic dynasty fought for the rights of Muslims and is often cited as being one of the longest lasting dynasties in history. It lasted for about 600 years, from 622 to 1258 CE and was mostly due to leaders such as Caliph Uthman (644–656) and Caliph Suleiman (717–720).
The Chola Dynasty was one of the longest lasting and most influential Indian dynasties, lasting for over 900 years. It’s rise to power is frequently credited to its influential kings, such as Rajaraja Chola I (907–944), Rajendra Chola I (1013–1044), and Kulottunga I (1089–1120).
It is difficult to definitively name the longest lasting dynasty, since different criteria can be applied to determine who is the most successful and influential. However, the above dynasties are some of the longest lasting and most powerful in all of world history.