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Ottomans

Definition

The Ottomans were a historical group that founded and controlled the Ottoman Empire, a state that existed from 1299 to 1922 and spanned parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Analogy

Think of the Ottomans as the directors of a long-running play (the Ottoman Empire). They decided on the script (laws), directed the actors (citizens), and managed everything behind-the-scenes (administration) for an impressively long run.

Related terms

Suleiman the Magnificent: The most famous Sultan of the Ottoman Empire who ruled at its peak in mid-16th century.

Janissaries: Elite infantry units that formed part of the household troops and bodyguards to the sultan in Ottoman Empire.

Byzantine Empire: An empire based in modern-day Turkey which was conquered by Ottomans in 1453 marking end of Byzantine Empire.

"Ottomans" appears in:

Practice Questions (2)

  • Conflict between the Ottomans and the Safavids
  • Which of the following regions was instrumental in providing the Ottomans a military advantage when building their empire?


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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.