Ottoman Empire

• Under rule of Mehmet II

• Concentrated on conquering Constantinople that the Byzantine empire controlled

• The Ottomans set up a fort on each side of the Bosporus Strait

• They entered the city on May 29, 1453.

• Constantinople was changed to Istanbul and was permanent capital of Ottoman Empire

• Ottomans became one of the most advanced fighting forces in the world

– Used small cannon, called falcons

– Used muskets

– Used fast Arabian horses

– Used tactic of pretend retreat

Ottoman rule

• They had a simple system of rule

• Controlled wealth by limiting taxation on the working class

• Used qualified officials (no matter their background) and this resulted in a stable government

• Ottomans viewed the merchants and artisans (skilled craftsmen) as essential to the success of the empire

• Ottoman empire was between the West and East so trade had to pass through the Empire.

• They would buy the treasures and re-sell them at a profit

• This is why Europeans looked for a different route to the East

Religion

• Other religions were allowed if you paid a tax to the government.

• European forces defeated the Ottomans in Vienna in 1683.