The Ottoman Empire was one of the most influential and enduring empires in world history. Founded in 1299 by Osman I, it lasted over six centuries.
It covered a vast area from Southeast Europe to North Africa and the Middle East. This empire was more than a powerful state. It shaped the culture, economy, and politics of regions still affected today.
You’ve heard of the grand Ottoman Empire’s architecture and its power struggles. But there’s much more to this story. The Ottoman Turkish Empire rose under powerful sultans and then declined. It demonstrates how empires can shape their times and be shaped by them.
This article will explore the Ottoman Empire’s history. We’ll cover its beginnings, location, rapid expansion, golden age, and decline. This guide will cover all about this incredible empire. It’s for history buffs, students, and the curious.
Let’s travel through time. We will see how the rise of the Ottoman Empire changed history. Its legacy still resonates today.
Table of Contents
Origins and Early Formation (1299–1453)
The Ottoman Empire began with a small Turkish tribe led by Osman I in 1299. He and his followers started as a modest group in Anatolia but had big ambitions. Situated close to the weakening Byzantine Empire, they saw a chance to grow and took it.
Osman’s early victories weren’t flashy, but they were important. By capturing the town of Bursa in 1326, the Ottomans set up their first capital. This marked the beginning of something much bigger. In the decades that followed, Osman’s successors pushed into new lands. They slowly built a reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Key Battles and Conquests
With each victory, the Ottoman Empire grew stronger. By 1354, they had crossed into Europe. They captured Gallipoli and secured their first foothold on the continent. This move opened doors for expansion into Europe. It showed that the Ottomans were ready to take on more powerful enemies.
Trade became a big part of their success. Their growing territory was linked to trade routes. It helped Bursa thrive as a trade center. People across Asia and Europe came to respect—and sometimes fear—the Ottoman Empire’s rise.
Setting Up Governance
Unlike some empires, the early Ottomans didn’t focus on battles. They developed a system for ruling over the diverse people they conquered. They blended Turkish customs with Islamic laws. This created a government that worked for people from different backgrounds.
One of their best moves was the millet system. It let different religions run their own communities. This kept things stable and helped different cultures thrive under Ottoman rule. They allowed a range of practices instead of forcing the same beliefs. This created a more unified empire.
The Path Toward Greater Power
With strong leadership, smart rule, and control of trade, the Ottoman Empire was set to become a major power. By the mid-15th century, they were ready to act. They aimed to conquer Constantinople and cement their place in history. This victory would put the Ottomans at the center of the world stage and mark the start of a golden age.
The Rise and Expansion of the Empire (1453-1606)
In 1453, the Ottoman Empire achieved a great victory: it captured Constantinople. The Ottomans, led by Sultan Mehmed II, “Mehmed the Conqueror,” took the old Byzantine capital. They made it to Istanbul.
This victory was more than symbolic. It put the Ottomans at the center of both the Christian and Muslim worlds. Istanbul became the empire’s heart, a bustling city that connected Europe and Asia.
With Istanbul as its new capital, the Ottoman Empire began a period of rapid expansion. Mahmed II and his successors launched campaigns. They spread Ottoman influence far beyond their original lands. They conquered parts of Eastern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. They built a vast empire, one of the world’s most powerful.
Expansion under Key Sultans
Following Mehmed’s lead, future sultans continued to push the empire’s borders. Sultan Selim I extended Ottoman control into Egypt and Arabia. He brought the holy cities of Mecca and Medina under Ottoman rule. This move boosted the Ottomans’ status in the Muslim world. They now held the title of Caliph, the leader of the Islamic community.
The most famous of all was Suleiman the Magnificent, who ruled from 1520 to 1566. Suleiman, known for his military skill and reforms, expanded Ottoman lands into Hungary. He then reached the gates of Vienna. His reign marked the height of Ottoman power, and he left a lasting legacy as both a warrior and a reformer.
Governance and Administration
The Ottoman Empire’s expansion refined its governance to manage its vast lands. The empire was divided into provinces, each overseen by a governor who reported to the Sultan. This structure allowed for local control. It ensured loyalty to the central government in Istanbul.
The Ottoman administration was known for its efficiency and discipline. It developed a merit-based system. It let anyone, even non-Muslims, rise through the ranks based on talent and loyalty. This inclusivity helped the Ottomans build a strong, efficient government. It could manage a large, diverse empire.
Cultural Achievements and Economic Growth
As the empire expanded, it also became a center of art, science, and architecture. Suleiman was a great patron of the arts. He funded grand mosques, libraries, and public buildings across the empire. Ottoman architecture, especially in Istanbul, blended Islamic and Byzantine styles. It created a unique style that is still admired today.
Trade flourished under the Ottomans, who controlled key routes between Asia and Europe. Istanbul’s markets bustled with goods from across the world, and the empire’s wealth grew as a result. The Ottoman Empire used its wealth to fund public works and a strong military.
Military Innovations and Strategy
The Ottomans had a powerful military, key to their success. They created an elite fighting force, the Janissaries. It was made up of highly trained soldiers loyal only to the Sultan. The Janissaries were known for their discipline and skill. They helped expand and defend Ottoman territories.
Ottoman leaders quickly adopted new military technology, like cannons and firearms. This gave them an edge in battles. Their willingness to innovate kept the empire’s forces strong and adaptable. This let them defend their lands and expand further.
Golden Age: Culture, Society, and Economy (16th-17th Centuries)
The 16th and 17th centuries marked the Golden Age of the Ottoman Empire. During this time, the empire became a hub of culture, trade, and learning. Under Suleiman the Magnificent and his successors, the Ottomans excelled in art, architecture, and science. Their legacy shaped future societies.
Art and Architecture
One of the hallmarks of the Ottoman Golden Age was its architectural achievements. Ottoman architects, inspired by Islamic and Byzantine traditions, created iconic structures. They still define Istanbul’s skyline today.
The Süleymaniye Mosque, designed by the famous architect Sinan, is a prime example of this blend. These grand buildings were places of worship. They also symbolized Ottoman power and sophistication.
Art also flourished, with Ottoman artisans excelling in ceramics, calligraphy, and textiles. The empire became famous for its Iznik pottery. It had intricate floral designs and vivid colors. This unique style became prized and widely traded. It boosted the empire’s cultural influence.
Social Structure and the Millet System
The Ottoman Empire was home to people of various ethnicities, religions, and languages. The Ottomans used the millet system to manage this diversity. It allowed different religious communities to govern themselves.
Each “millet,” or community, had its own leaders. They could follow their customs as long as they paid taxes and remained loyal to the sultan.
This system fostered a sense of belonging and stability. Non-Muslims, like Christians and Jews, had freedoms that were rare in other empires of the time.
They could practice their religion. They often played key roles in trade and the arts. This tolerance set the Ottoman Empire apart and contributed to its internal peace.
Economic Prosperity and Trade
Trade was a cornerstone of the Ottoman economy during the Golden Age. The empire’s location connected Asia, Europe, and Africa. It became a major trade center. Cities like Istanbul and Aleppo became bustling trade hubs.
They attracted merchants from around the world. Spices, silk, coffee, and other goods flowed through Ottoman ports, enriching the empire.
Ottoman rulers created a stable currency and established markets. These promoted local and international trade. These markets thrived and brought prosperity. The Ottoman Empire was then known for its wealth. The economy allowed the state to support the arts and a strong military.
Advances in Science and Education
The Ottomans valued education and were eager to learn from different cultures. Scholars from the empire gathered in Istanbul and other cities to share knowledge. They studied subjects like medicine, astronomy, and engineering. They blended Islamic learning with ideas from Europe and the Middle East.
Ottoman scientists advanced medicine and astronomy. Skilled engineers built impressive bridges, fortifications, and water systems. Libraries and schools were built. They created an educated elite. This group helped the empire’s administration and culture thrive.
Summary of the Golden Age
The Golden Age of the Ottoman Empire saw growth in culture, economy, and science. Art and architecture flourished, thanks to the empire’s wealth and talent. The millet system created harmony among diverse groups, and trade brought prosperity.
The Ottoman Empire’s cultural, social, and economic achievements left a lasting legacy. It influenced the world for centuries.
Military Structure and Strategy
The Ottoman Empire built its success partly on its powerful and disciplined military. People knew the Ottomans for their innovative approach. They built a structured military that helped them conquer and control a vast empire. This military was not large. It was also advanced and well-organized. It kept the empire strong for centuries.
The Janissaries: Elite Fighting Force
The Janissaries were the core of the Ottoman military. This elite group of soldiers was unique, as they were loyal only to the Sultan. The Janissaries were young recruits from Christian Balkan families. They were taken by the devshirme system.
They were converted to Islam and rigorously trained. They became highly skilled fighters, known for their discipline and loyalty.
Janissaries were among the first to use firearms. This set them apart from other armies of the time. Their training in musket and cannon warfare made the Ottoman army a force to be reckoned with.
The Janissaries were more than warriors. They were symbols of Ottoman strength and unity. They held a special place in the empire.
The Role of Artillery
The Ottomans were quick to adopt and improve upon new military technologies. Cannons played a vital role in their campaigns, especially during sieges. The Ottomans used heavy artillery to break strong fortifications.
This tactic was key to capturing Constantinople in 1453. Their unmatched artillery gave them an edge in battles across Europe and the Middle East.
Their skilled use of artillery made the Ottoman military one of the most feared in the world. It wasn’t just the size of their army that impressed. It was their tech skills and quick adaptation to new war tactics.
Naval Power
In addition to their powerful land forces, the Ottomans built a strong navy. They knew that controlling the Mediterranean was vital for defense and trade. They had a well-equipped fleet. It helped them expand into North Africa. They fought rivals like Venice and Spain for control of key sea routes.
The Ottoman navy protected the empire’s shores and trade routes. This made the empire wealthy from trade across the Mediterranean and Red Seas. Their sea dominance strengthened the empire’s hold on its territories. It also boosted its economy.
Military Strategy and Organization
The Ottoman military was highly organized. Each unit had a specific role, from frontline soldiers to logistical support teams. The empire was divided into provinces. Each had to maintain its own military. This system ensured the Ottomans had soldiers ready to defend their land.
Ottoman leaders also valued strategy. They used clever tactics to weaken their enemies before full battles. These included quick raids and psychological warfare. This approach helped the Ottomans win many campaigns with few losses. It extended their control over a vast, diverse empire.
Legacy of Ottoman Military Power
The Ottoman military played a key role in the empire’s rise and success. The Janissaries, new artillery, and a strong navy made the Ottoman Empire a great power in history. Their strategies and discipline became a model for other empires. They influenced military practices across Europe and Asia.
Religion and Governance
Religion was at the core of the Ottoman Empire’s governance. The Ottomans, an Islamic empire, saw the Sultan as both a ruler and the Caliph, the Muslim world’s leader. This role gave the empire religious authority.
It gained control of Mecca and Medina. The Ottoman rulers took this duty seriously. They blended religious principles with government policies to maintain order across their lands.
The Millet System: Religious Tolerance in Action
The Ottoman Empire was known for its diverse population. The Ottoman lands had people from different religions, like Christians and Jews. To manage this diversity, the Ottomans created the millet system.
It allowed each religious group, or “millet,” to self-govern based on its beliefs and customs. As long as they paid taxes and remained loyal, each millet was free to manage its internal affairs.
This setup helped create a stable society where different groups could coexist peacefully. It set the Ottoman Empire apart from other empires. Religious tolerance was rare in those times. The millet system let the Ottomans keep order. It did so without imposing a single religious or cultural identity on all citizens.
Role of Islamic Law in Governance
The millet system allowed for diversity. But Islamic law, or Sharia, was central to Ottoman rule. People saw the Sultan as the protector of Islam, and Sharia principles guided his rule. Ottoman laws combined Islamic teachings with practical rules. They helped govern the empire’s diverse population.
The empire also appointed ulama, or religious scholars. They advised on legal matters. They ensured the Sultan’s policies aligned with Islamic values. This mix of religious and secular rule created a stable government. Both Muslims and non-Muslims in the empire respected it.
Administration and Social Hierarchy
The Ottoman Empire had a unique social hierarchy, with the Sultan at the top. Below him was a council of advisers, including the Grand Vizier. He handled day-to-day governance. This council decided on military, legal, and economic issues. It ensured the Sultan’s rule reached every part of the empire.
Provincial governors managed local areas, reporting to the central government in Istanbul. This system centralized power but allowed local autonomy. It helped the Ottomans control a vast area. The Ottoman administration was flexible. It adapted to the needs of different regions. This kept the empire stable for centuries.
Balancing Power and Religion
Religion and governance were carefully balanced in the Ottoman system. The Sultan was a religious leader. But he valued practical governance. This balance allowed the empire to thrive as both a political and religious power.
The Ottomans respected the customs of different groups. They had a strong, flexible, and tolerant society. Their structured government helped.
Legacy of Ottoman Governance
The Ottoman Empire’s approach to governance left a lasting impact on the regions it ruled. Its emphasis on religious tolerance and the millet system influenced later governments. It created a model for them. Even after the empire fell, its methods still shaped societies in the Middle East and beyond. They balanced religion and state.
The Decline of the Empire (17th-19th Centuries)
By the 17th century, the Ottoman Empire began to show signs of decline. A once-powerful, vast empire began to face internal and external challenges. Over time, economic struggles, military defeats and weak leadership weakened Ottoman rule. This led to a gradual loss of power and territory.
Economic Challenges and Trade Shifts
At its height, the Ottoman Empire thrived on trade. It connected Asia and Europe through major trade routes. However, by the 17th century, trade patterns began to shift.
European countries started exploring sea routes, bypassing the Ottoman-controlled land routes. This change caused a drop in trade revenue. It had been a key source of Ottoman wealth.
Internal issues also affected the economy. High taxes and inflation hit the common people hard, leading to unrest. The empire struggled to fund its army and government. This weakened its ability to respond to internal and external threats.
Military Defeats and Losses
The Ottoman military, once one of the world’s best, had serious challenges. Over time, European powers improved their military technology and strategies. The Ottoman military fell behind. The once-mighty Janissaries were the empire’s elite forces.
They lost their discipline and effectiveness. This made it hard for the Ottomans to compete in battles.
Key defeats in battles against Austria and Russia led to the loss of Ottoman lands in Eastern Europe. These setbacks showed that the empire could no longer maintain its hold on all its lands. Over time, the Ottoman Empire lost control of regions vital to its power.
Administrative Corruption and Inefficiency
As the empire grew older, corruption and inefficiency crept into its administration. Local leaders (or pashas) often acted independently. They did not always follow orders from Istanbul. This lack of control weakened the empire. Regions began to drift from the Sultan’s authority.
The 19th-century Tanzimat Reforms were one such effort. They aimed to modernize the empire’s administration, economy, and military. The reforms introduced new legal codes and centralized authority. They aimed to improve relations with European powers. However, the changes came too late to fully reverse the empire’s decline.
Rise of Nationalism and Independence Movements
Nationalism also played a significant role in the Ottoman Empire’s decline. As European ideas of national identity spread, groups in the empire sought independence. They were ethnic and religious groups. The Balkans became a conflict zone. The Serbs, Greeks, and Bulgarians fought for freedom.
The Ottomans struggled to control these independence movements. They often used military force to suppress them. But they could not stop the wave of nationalism sweeping through their territories. Regions gained independence or were taken over by European powers. This further reduced the Ottoman Empire’s influence.
The Impact of European Powers
As the Ottoman Empire weakened, European powers saw an opportunity to expand. Britain, France, and Russia were among them. The Crimean War and later conflicts with Russia strained the Ottomans.
They struggled to defend their lands against more advanced European forces. European involvement added political pressure on the Ottomans. It pushed them to adopt reforms that didn’t always benefit their people.
By the end of the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire was often referred to as the “sick man of Europe.” Its authority had weakened, and its future seemed uncertain. Though it still controlled key regions, its power and influence had diminished significantly.
The Ottoman Empire in the Modern Age and Dissolution (20th Century)
As the 20th century began, the Ottoman Empire was struggling to survive. Years of economic hardship, military losses, and social unrest had weakened the empire. Also, rising nationalist movements in Ottoman lands threatened the empire’s centuries-old unity.
World War I and the Empire’s Final Battles
The Ottoman Empire entered World War I in 1914. It aligned with the Central Powers, including Germany and Austria-Hungary. The Ottomans hoped this alliance would protect their lands and restore some influence.
But the war only accelerated the empire’s decline. Ottoman forces suffered major losses, especially to the British in the Middle East.
A key event in the war was the Arab Revolt. Arab groups, with British support, fought for independence from Ottoman rule. The revolt caused the loss of control over much of the Arabian Peninsula. It signaled a weakening hold on its lands.
Internal Struggles and the Armenian Genocide
In this chaos, the Ottoman government faced internal struggles. There were social and ethnic tensions. One of the most tragic events was the 1915 Armenian Genocide. The Ottoman authorities forcibly displaced and killed many Armenians.
This act is a dark chapter in Ottoman history. It has lasting effects on Armenian communities worldwide.
The internal unrest worsened the empire’s troubles. It drained resources and deepened divisions in Ottoman society. The weakening of the empire was now evident to both its people and the outside world.
End of the Ottoman Empire: Treaty of Sèvres
By 1918, the Ottoman Empire was on the losing side of World War I. The defeat brought harsh consequences. In 1920, the Treaty of Sèvres was signed, officially dissolving much of the Ottoman territory. This treaty gave control of Ottoman land to the Allies. It ended Ottoman rule over most of its former regions.
The once-great empire was now reduced to a small area centered around Anatolia. Its influence in the Middle East and Europe had vanished, and its centuries-old empire was essentially dismantled.
The Rise of Modern Turkey and the Republic
The final blow came in 1922. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, a national hero and former Ottoman officer, led a movement to abolish the Sultanate. It was successful. Atatürk aimed to modernize Turkey, establishing it as a secular republic. In 1923, he officially founded the Republic of Turkey, marking a new era and the end of Ottoman rule.
Atatürk’s reforms transformed Turkey, shifting it away from Ottoman traditions. He introduced modern laws, encouraged education, and promoted secularism. His goal was to align Turkey with European nations. This new direction marked the end of the Ottoman era and the beginning of modern Turkey.
Legacy of the Ottoman Empire
Though the Ottoman Empire no longer exists, its legacy is still felt. The empire’s influence on architecture, art, and governance lasted in the Middle East, Balkans, and North Africa. The Ottomans contributed to culture and trade. Their impact shapes societies in former Ottoman lands.
Notable Figures of the Ottoman Empire
The Ottoman Empire was shaped by many influential leaders and scholars. Their actions and decisions had a lasting impact. They led the empire and shaped its culture, military, and governance. Here are some of the most notable figures in Ottoman history.
Osman I: The Founder
Osman I was the founder of the Ottoman Empire and its first Sultan. In 1299, he led a small Turkish principality in Anatolia. He set the stage for one of history’s most powerful empires.
Under Osman, the Ottomans began their expansion. They captured key territories and built a strong foundation. His vision and leadership inspired future Ottoman rulers to build on his legacy.
Mehmed II: The Conqueror of Constantinople
Sultan Mehmed II, or Mehmed the Conqueror, is famous for conquering Constantinople in 1453. This victory ended the Byzantine Empire. It turned Constantinople into Istanbul, the new Ottoman capital.
Mahmed II’s rule brought growth and diversity. He invited people of various backgrounds to settle in the city. His conquest established the Ottomans as a major force in both Europe and Asia.
Suleiman the Magnificent: The Lawgiver
Suleiman the Magnificent is a famous Ottoman sultan. He ruled from 1520 to 1566. Suleiman was known for his military conquests. He expanded the empire into Europe, Asia, and Africa. It became a dominant global power. Suleiman’s military achievements were great.
He was also a lawmaker, earning him the title “The Lawgiver.” He reformed the Ottoman legal system, focusing on justice and equality. He supported the arts and culture, leading to a Golden Age in Ottoman society.
Roxelana: The Influential Queen
Roxelana, or Hürrem Sultan, was the wife of Suleiman the Magnificent. She was one of the most powerful women in Ottoman history. Originally a slave, she rose to become the Sultan’s closest advisor.
Roxelana influenced Ottoman politics and diplomacy, often advising Suleiman on state matters. Her unique position shifted women’s roles in the Ottoman court. She remains an intriguing figure in Ottoman history.
Selim I: The Caliph of Islam
Sultan Selim I, “Selim the Grim,” expanded the empire into the Middle East and North Africa. He brought the Islamic holy cities of Mecca and Medina under Ottoman control. This established the Sultan as the Caliph of Islam.
This achievement made the Ottomans the Muslim world’s religious leaders. It boosted their authority and influence in the Islamic community.
Sinan: The Master Architect
Mimar Sinan, the “Master Architect,” was a top Ottoman architect. As chief architect under Suleiman the Magnificent, Sinan designed many iconic buildings of the empire. They include the Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul. His work combined Islamic and Byzantine styles. It created a distinct Ottoman style that later designs influenced.
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk: The Modernizer
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was a key figure in the last days of the Ottoman Empire. He transformed Ottoman Turkey into the modern Republic of Turkey. He led Turkey to independence. Then he abolished the Sultanate.
He also introduced reforms that modernized the country. Atatürk’s changes aimed to create a secular, progressive Turkey. They marked a new era after the end of Ottoman rule.
Exploring the Ottoman Empire Timeline and Key Events
The Ottoman Empire timeline has key milestones. Osman I founded it in 1299. It dissolved after World War I. The empire, built over centuries, covered parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. European observers called it the “Empire Ottoman.” This timeline shows how each era of Ottoman rule helped its rise as a world power.
Which event happened first in the history of the Ottoman Empire? The earliest notable event was Osman I’s conquest of key Byzantine lands. It provided the foundation for future expansion. The empire became a political and cultural center. It influenced neighboring regions through trade, military conquests, and diplomacy.
Which event happened last in the history of the Ottoman Empire? The final chapter unfolded in 1922 with the official abolition of the Sultanate. This marked the end of an empire that had shaped global trade and politics for over 600 years. The 1923 Treaty of Lausanne set Turkey’s modern borders. It ended a monumental historical era.
For those interested in learning more about the Ottoman era, there are numerous histories of Ottoman Empire books that explore its cultural impact, governance, and achievements.
They often discuss the Ottoman Empire’s impact on modern law, architecture, and art. The Ottoman Empire influenced how its policies affected regions beyond their borders.
How did the reign of the Ottoman Empire represent a turning point in history? The empire’s rule brought great advances in governance, military, and tolerance. Its ability to manage diverse populations and vast lands showed a deep understanding of statecraft. It influenced later empires and modern nations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What was the Ottoman Empire known for?
The Ottoman Empire was known for its vast size, rich culture, and military strength. It controlled major trade routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa. It influenced art, architecture, and governance across its territories.
2. Why did the Ottoman Empire collapse?
The empire collapsed due to economic struggles, military defeats, and rising nationalism. Its diverse peoples were becoming more nationalistic. World War I weakened the empire. It ended in 1922 with the birth of modern Turkey.
3. Who were the Janissaries?
The Janissaries were elite Ottoman soldiers. They were recruited from Christian families and trained for service to the Sultan. They were loyal and disciplined. They helped the empire’s military success. However, their influence declined in later years.
4. What was the millet system?
The millet system was an Ottoman policy. It allowed religious groups to govern their own communities. This system helped manage the empire’s diversity. It gave non-Muslim groups, like Christians and Jews, autonomy in their affairs.
5. How did the Ottoman Empire influence modern society?
The Ottoman Empire left a lasting impact on architecture, culture, and governance. Its legacy is especially seen in the Middle East, the Balkans, and parts of North Africa. There, Ottoman culture, architecture, and systems influenced local societies.
6. Who was Suleiman the Magnificent?
Suleiman the Magnificent was a powerful Ottoman sultan. He was known for his military conquests and legal reforms. His reign marked the peak of the Ottoman Empire. It saw advances in the arts, culture, and governance.
7. How long did the Ottoman Empire last?
The Ottoman Empire lasted for over 600 years, from 1299 to 1922. It was one of history’s longest-lasting empires. It spanned many continents and influenced many cultures.
Conclusion
The Ottoman Empire is one of history’s most remarkable empires. It is known for its long-lasting influence, diverse culture, and powerful rule. The Ottomans built an empire that shaped the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa.
It began with Osman I and reached a golden age under Suleiman the Magnificent. Their blend of Islamic values and practical governance helped them manage diverse populations. This promoted stability and growth.
However, like many great empires, the Ottomans faced a decline over time. They faced challenges that led to their downfall. Economic shifts, military defeats, and rising nationalism slowly weakened the empire.
By the 20th century, the Ottoman Empire had lost much of its power. It dissolved after World War I, giving way to the Republic of Turkey.
The Ottoman legacy lives on in the architecture, art, and social systems of the regions it once ruled. Its governance, religious tolerance, and cultural achievements are historic. The Ottoman Empire had a deep impact on the world for centuries. Its lessons still resonate today.