Conqueror Mehmed, Sovereign of the Ottoman Empire
Mehmed II, born on March 30, 1432, in Edirne, was a key historical figure known for his passion for the arts and his significant contributions to the Ottoman Empire. The son of Sultan Murad II and Hüma Hatun, Mehmed II ruled the Ottoman Empire twice, from 1444 to 1446 and again from 1451 to 1481, until his death on May 3, 1481, at the age of 49.
Mehmed II's most notable achievement was the conquest of Constantinople in 1453, marking the end of the Byzantine Empire. His success at Constantinople can be attributed to several strategic, tactical, and technological factors.
Preparation and control of the Bosphorus Strait played a crucial role. Mehmed strengthened Ottoman control over naval routes by building the Rumelihisarı fortress on the European side, complementing the older fortress on the Asian side. This gave him complete control of the Bosphorus Strait, crucial for blockade and supply control during the siege.
Naval innovation and maneuvers also played a significant part. Mehmed transported his fleet of lighter warships overland, circumventing the chain defense across the Golden Horn by dragging about eighty galleys on a wooden path. This allowed the Ottomans to attack from a new direction and extend the Byzantine defenses thin.
Use of heavy artillery was another key factor. Mehmed employed massive cannons designed by the engineer Orban, similar to the famous Dardanelles Gun. These artillery pieces were capable of bombarding the formidable Theodosian Walls of Constantinople, which had been considered nearly impregnable.
Mehmed's military innovations and strategy were also instrumental. He combined a blockade, artillery bombardment, and the weakening of enemy defenses through naval and land operations over a protracted 57-day siege. He also utilized a large and well-equipped army that stretched the defenders over a wide front.
Beyond military tactics, Mehmed's success was cemented by his approach after conquest. He spared Constantinople from destruction, repaired the city, repopulated it with diverse communities (including Muslims, Christians, and Jews), and restored important religious institutions. These moves stabilized and legitimized Ottoman rule, attracting loyalty from populations within the city and empire.
Under Mehmed II's rule, the Ottoman Empire grew strong, reaching across Anatolia and the Balkans. Mehmed II's efforts in Anatolia helped bring the region back under Ottoman rule. He also overhauled the Ottoman law to better manage the vast territory.
Mehmed II led 19 campaigns in total, including a significant victory at Otlukbeli against Uzun Hasan, removing a major threat and strengthening the Ottomans. As a child, Mehmed II was given the opportunity to study under the best scholars, learning history, theology, and other languages.
Mehmed II invited artists, scientists, and thinkers to his empire, contributing to a golden age of cultural achievements. He is known for his strong commitment to Islamic principles and reorganized the tax system and land ownership to strengthen the empire's finances.
One of Mehmed II's most iconic actions was changing Hagia Sophia into a mosque after capturing Constantinople. He also took over places like Amasra and Trebizond. Mehmed II created libraries and supported scholars, including famous works like Homer's Iliad and Ptolemy's map of the ancient world.
Mehmed II, known as the Conqueror, is regarded as one of the greatest sultans of the Ottoman Empire. His strategic brilliance, innovative tactics, and commitment to cultural and political growth made him a pivotal figure in Ottoman history.
In the realm of general news, Mehmed II's military achievements in war-and-conflicts, such as the conquest of Constantinople, are widely regarded as a significant turning point in history due to his strategic brilliance and innovative tactics. Furthermore, his political decisions, including sparing Constantinople from destruction and promoting multiculturalism, played a crucial role in establishing and legitimizing his rule, a key aspect of Ottoman politics.
