The History of the Ottoman Empire and the Founding of Modern Turkey

Context and Origins

• The Republic of Turkey celebrated 100 years since its founding on October 29, 2023, marking the end of the Ottoman Empire in 1923.
• The Ottoman Empire rose from a minor power in Northwestern Anatolia, expanding to dominate the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe.
• Origin of the Turks: Migration from Eastern Asia, settling in areas around the Caspian and Aral Seas.
• Seljuk Empire: Formed by Seljuk, a leader from the Oghuz tribe, who expanded into Persia and influenced by its culture. They converted to Islam.

The Rise of the Ottoman Empire

• Osman: Founder of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century.
• Expansion involved conquering remaining Byzantine territories including Constantinople in 1453.
• Mehmed II: Oversaw the conquest of Constantinople and expansion into the Balkans, Middle East, and North Africa.
• Süleyman the Magnificent: Led the Empire to its peak, expanded extensively, and secured a well-trained military including the janissaries.

The Ottoman Empire at its Height

• The Ottoman military excelled with trained infantry, cavalry, and artillery.
• Encountered conflicts with European powers, notably Spain in the Mediterranean.
• Key battles included the Siege of Malta (1565) and the Battle of Lepanto (1571).

Decline and Challenges

• Post-17th century, decline due to complacency among Sultans and economic shifts favoring the Atlantic trade routes.
• The term "sick man of Europe" was used as the empire weakened.
• Losses in the Balkans, North Africa, and pressures from Russia and Austria.
• Internal pressures from nationalist movements and reform demands.

The Fall of the Ottoman Empire

• Entered WWI on the side of Germany, experiencing both victories and defeats.
• Post-war, much of the Empire was divided, and territories lost.
• Atatürk's Leadership: Led the Turkish War of Independence (1919-1923) against Allied forces.
• Treaty of Lausanne (1923) recognized the Republic of Turkey, marking the end of the Ottoman Empire.

Key Outcomes

• Emergence of the modern Turkish state under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
• Abolishment of the Ottoman dynasty and reform into a republic with Ankara as its capital.