Explain how the land-based empires of the 1450-1750 time period developed (what allowed them to obtain and maintain power): ANSWER: Imperial expansion in Europe and Asia resulted from the increased use of gunpowder, cannons, and armed trade to establish large empires. Most of the groups that were conquered were weak or disorganized. These land based empires included the Manchu in Central East Asia, the Mughal in South and Central Asia, the Ottoman in Southern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. The rulers centralize their power over politics, religion and the military. They also controlled trade, enriching the rulers, who created cultural monuments and stronger militaries.