One of the key factors contributing to economic stagnation during the Qajar era was the decline of traditional industries such as silk weaving and carpet making. These industries had been major sources of wealth for Iran for centuries, but they began to decline due to competition from cheaper European imports. The Qajar rulers did little to support or modernize these industries, leading to a loss of revenue and employment opportunities for the Iranian people. Furthermore, the Qajar rulers were notorious for their excessive spending and extravagance, which drained the treasury and led to increasing levels of debt.