The Ottoman Empire began as a small frontier principality in northwestern Anatolia - one of many Turkish beyliks born from the collapse of the Seljuks and the Mongol invasions. Within centuries, it transformed into a vast empire spanning three continents, uniting diverse peoples under one of history’s longest-lasting dynasties. How did it rise, expand, and sustain its rule for over 600 years?

In this episode, Professor Charles Wilkins joins us to discuss:
🔹 The Turkic migrations and the Seljuk legacy that paved the way for the Ottomans
🔹 The foundation of Osman’s beylik and the flexible “ghazi” ethos of early conquests
🔹 Mehmed II’s capture of Constantinople and transformation of it into an imperial capital
🔹 The rise of Ottoman institutions: the Janissaries, the timar system, and the Grand Vizier
🔹 The conquest of Egypt and the holy cities — and the empire’s claim to the Caliphate
🔹 Rivalry with the Safavids and the limits of expansion after the failed sieges of Vienna

From tribal warriors to imperial administrators, we trace how the Ottomans forged a cosmopolitan empire that shaped the politics, faith, and geography of the Middle East for centuries.

🎙️ Guest: Professor Charles Wilkins: https://history.wfu.edu/people/wilkincl/
 📚 Recommended reading: A History of the Ottoman Empire by Douglas Howard

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