The Foundation of the Ottoman Empire

The Ottoman State is a major Turkic-Islamic state that ruled for more than 600 years and spanned three continents. Founded in 1299 with its center in Söğüt, this state gradually evolved into a world empire.

How Was the Ottoman State Established?

The establishment of the Ottoman State occurred after a long period of migrations, wars, and the era of Turkish principalities. Osman Gazi strengthened the Kayı tribe principality he inherited from his father Ertuğrul Gazi and declared its independence. This small principality, which emerged on the Byzantine frontier in 1299, gradually transformed into a vast state.

Why Was the Ottoman State Established?

- The decline of the Seljuk State led to the emergence of numerous principalities in Anatolia.

- Osman Gazi won the trust of the people through both political leadership and religious guidance.

- His proximity to the Byzantine Empire provided opportunities for conquest.

- The support of the Ahi organization and scholars helped the people act in unity.

What Happened During the Establishment of the Ottoman State?

1. Ertuğrul Gazi’s Homeland: The Kayı tribe settled in Söğüt after migrating to Anatolia.

2. Osman Gazi Becomes Bey: After his father’s death, Osman Bey was chosen as leader.

3. First Wars: Osman Gazi waged war against Byzantine fortresses.

4. 1299: Osman Gazi declared independence. This date is accepted as the official founding of the Ottoman State.

What If the Ottoman State Had Not Been Established?

- Anatolia would have remained divided among small principalities.

- Istanbul might not have been conquered in 1453.

- The balance between Europe and the East would have been disrupted.

- A major unity within the Islamic world could not have emerged.

Founding Heroes

- Ertuğrul Gazi: Left his son a strong legacy.

- Osman Gazi: The founder of the state, a warrior and visionary leader.

- Sheikh Edebali: Provided spiritual guidance to Osman Gazi and taught the principle “Keep humanity alive so that the state may live.”

Characteristics of the Ottoman Founding Period

- A small but disciplined army existed.

- A just and tolerant system of governance was adopted.

- A principality system closely connected with the people was established.

- Borders expanded rapidly through conquests.

Scientific and Historical Perspective

- Ottoman historians base the founding on the principles of ghaza and justice.

- Archaeological findings and foundation deeds shed light on the early periods of the Ottoman State.

- Documents show that Osman Gazi declared independence by having his first Friday sermon delivered.

⏳ Time Travel: Traces of the Foundation

The foundation of the Ottoman State was laid on justice and faith. At that time, people placed their trust in both their families and their state. After its establishment, this structure endured for hundreds of years. Today, mosques, bridges, and külliyes left from the Ottoman era remain living witnesses to history.

References

Uzunçarşılı, İ. Hakkı. *Osmanlı Tarihi, Cilt I*. Ankara: Türk Tarih Kurumu Yayınları, 1988.

İnalcık, Halil. *Kuruluş Dönemi Osmanlı Sultanları*. İstanbul: Türkiye İş Bankası Kültür Yayınları, 2010.

Ministry of Culture and Tourism. “Osmanlı’nın Kuruluşu.” https://kulturportali.gov.tr

TRT Documentary. “Osmanlı Kuruluş Belgeseli.” https://www.trtizle.com

Republic of Türkiye Presidency Archives. “Osmanlı Arşiv Belgeleri.” https://www.devletarsivleri.gov.tr/