The Training of Absolute Obedience
Obedience was carefully taught and deeply instilled in the Turkish military. This discipline began early and was enforced with great strictness. The Spahis were trained within their seraglios and military schools, while the Janissaries were raised and instructed in their own chambers and barracks. From the beginning, soldiers were taught to obey orders without question, believing submission to be both a duty and a virtue.
This system of discipline was originally founded on reason, order, and self-control. When properly maintained, it created a powerful and effective military force. However, such discipline was not unbreakable. When passions and rivalries at court interfered, the very obedience that supported the Empire could quickly dissolve.
The Influence of Court Politics
The emotions and personal interests of princes often had a strong influence over the entire state. When powerful factions at court competed for authority, they sought to win the support of the soldiers. Each side tried to draw the military into its own cause, offering promises of reward, promotion, or favor.
In such moments, the soldiers’ loyalty shifted from the Empire to individual leaders. This led to internal conflict, civil strife, and military disorder. History shows that these divisions often resulted in sedition, the ruin of empires, the fall of commonwealths, and the violent deaths of great ministers of state Daily Sofia Tour.
Misrule and Military Disobedience
Such a crisis occurred when poor government and unsuccessful wars weakened respect for authority. Discontent spread through the army, and ambitious individuals encouraged rebellion to advance their own positions. Soldiers who had once been loyal were stirred into defiance by those seeking power.
During the reign of Sultan Mahomet, the present Grand Signior, the entire government of the Empire fell into the hands of a single woman named Mulki Kadin. She was young, bold, and ruled through the extraordinary favor of the Queen Mother. It was widely rumored that the Queen Mother exercised an unnatural and corrupt influence over her, and through her, over the affairs of state.
Rule from the Inner Chambers
As a result, the authority of the Grand Vizier and the senior statesmen was greatly diminished. No important decision could be made without the approval of this woman. Black eunuchs and servants dictated policy, and cabinet councils were held secretly within the private apartments of the women.
Appointments and dismissals of officers were made not according to merit or experience, but based on what best served private interests. Many capable officials were removed, while others were promoted solely because they supported the ruling faction.
The Consequences of Corruption
This corruption of authority destroyed military discipline and encouraged unrest within the army. When soldiers see power abused and order replaced by favoritism, obedience quickly disappears. Thus, the very system designed to maintain stability became the source of chaos and danger to the Empire itself.