Ottoman Empire 16th Century

The Ottoman Empire, 16th century ruler, Suleiman I was the most celebrated of the Ottoman Empire sultans. He was not only an able military ruler and strategist, but under him there was also a flourishing of culture in the Ottoman Empire. Under him, the Ottoman Empire reached its peak.

Suleiman who ruled the Ottoman Empire, in the 16th century was known as "the lawgiver" by all his Mulsim subjects because under his reign Seriat law was codified. In Europe, Suleiman was known as Suleiman "The Magnificent" by those who feared him and were in awe of him as well.

Military Pursuits

Suleiman began expanding the Ottoman Empire by taking over Belgrade in the year 1521. In the very next year - 1522- he managed to take over Rhodes from the Knights of St. John. This was followed by a victory at the Battle of Mohacs and Buleiman won over Buda on the banks of the river Danube. In the late 1520s and 1530s, Suleiman managed to conquer a considerably large part of North Africa - right up to Morocco.

In the year 1534, Suleiman managed to take over Mesopotamia from Persia. This actually led Suleiman to spread his wings over the Persian Gulf. However, this also meant war with the Portuguese - a naval war of large proportions. Suleiman strengthened the defenses of his Empire, particularly in Jerusalem.

Lifestyle

As a result of the increased security in the Ottoman Empire, 16th century saw a great flourishing of art and craft and trade. In fact, even vast improvements in farming were noted in the region. In Jerusalem there were a great number of street markets as well as a result of which the ordinary consumer was given a much larger variety to choose from.

There was a price rise during this time, but at the same time, there was a marked increase in the living standards of the people. New industries such as soap, leather and even textiles grew and flourished. There was a rise in demand from other parts of the world, including Europe and export and import also flourished.

After Suleiman's death in 1566, the Ottoman Empire was indeed a force to reckon with - he had managed to make it a world power. It extended over three continents - Europe, Asia as well as Africa. Suleiman the great had made sure that the Ottoman Empire of the 16th century left behind a legacy.