Longevity and Expansion: Spanning over six centuries, the Ottoman Empire was founded in the early 14th century and endured until the early 20th century. At its peak, it encompassed vast territories across three continents, including Southeast Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. Its expansion was propelled by military prowess, strategic alliances, and administrative innovations.
Multiculturalism and Tolerance: Despite being an Islamic empire, the Ottomans were remarkably tolerant of different religions and cultures within their domains. They practiced a policy known as millet, which granted significant autonomy to religious communities, including Christians, Jews, and others. This policy fostered a diverse and multicultural society where various ethnic and religious groups coexisted relatively peacefully for centuries.
Administrative Innovations: The Ottoman Empire was renowned for its advanced administrative systems. One of its most notable features was the devshirme system, where the empire recruited Christian boys from the Balkans to serve in various governmental and military positions. Many of these boys were trained as Janissaries, the elite infantry units of the empire, and played crucial roles in its administration and military campaigns.
Administrative Innovations: The Ottoman Empire was renowned for its advanced administrative systems. One of its most notable features was the devshirme system, where the empire recruited Christian boys from the Balkans to serve in various governmental and military positions. Many of these boys were trained as Janissaries, the elite infantry units of the empire, and played crucial roles in its administration and military campaigns.
