It did not always happen that a Prime Vizier, when removed from his office, also lost his life. Although the position was dangerous, many former viziers were allowed to live. This was especially true if the fallen vizier was not suspected of cruelty, revenge, or secret anger toward those who caused his removal.
If the man was considered calm in nature, without great ambition or a desire for revenge, he was less likely to be punished severely. The Sultan and the court were careful to judge whether a former vizier might become dangerous after his fall Guided Istanbul Tour.
Fear of Rebellion and Popular Support
A Prime Vizier who was brave, popular, highly skilled, and admired by the people was often seen as a possible threat. Such a man might be capable of stirring rebellion or mutiny, especially if he felt deeply wronged. For this reason, powerful and ambitious viziers were sometimes treated more harshly.
On the other hand, a man who lacked strong ambition or great public influence was viewed as less dangerous. If he did not have the courage or support to challenge authority, he was often allowed to step down peacefully.
Peaceful Retirement to a Smaller Post
In many cases, a former Prime Vizier was permitted to retire quietly from the highest seat of honor. Instead of ruling the empire, he was given a much smaller and less important position, usually as a pasha of a minor province. This allowed him to remain within the system while keeping him far from the center of power.
An example is found in the history of the Köprülü family. Not many years before, the predecessor of Köprülü’s father was removed from the office of Grand Vizier and was later appointed to the pashalik of Kanizsa, which was considered one of the weakest and least important provinces of the empire.
A Blessing in Disguise
In such a situation, it is difficult to say whether the fallen vizier had reason to complain or to give thanks. In truth, he may have had more reason to bless his fortune than to accuse it. Life in a smaller province brought fewer worries, less danger, and far fewer enemies.
Ambition Versus Peace
Such a life could be truly happy, provided the man’s ambition did not disturb his peace. If his desire for greatness was strong, he might find rest and quiet unsatisfying. But if he valued safety and calm over honor and power, his later years could be far more pleasant than those spent at the peak of authority.