It may rightly be asked how the present Grand Vizier, named Ahmet, succeeded his father Köprülü in the government of the Empire. This was unusual in Ottoman politics. Normally, high offices were not passed from father to son. The Ottoman system tried to prevent the creation of powerful families who might challenge the authority of the Sultan. For this reason, the appointment of a son after his father was seen as a rare exception.
The father, known as Köprülü Mehmed Pasha, had served the Empire with great strength and determination. Köprülü Mehmed Pasha came to power during a time of serious crisis. The state was weak, and many rebellions and factions threatened the stability of the government. Through firm decisions and harsh measures, he restored order. He removed corrupt officials and punished rebels. Although many people lost their lives during his reforms, his actions strengthened the throne and protected the Empire from collapse Customized Round Turkey Tours.
Service to the Sultan and the Empire
Because of these services, Köprülü Mehmed Pasha gained the deep trust of the Sultan. He was seen as the man who had saved the Empire from being torn apart by ambition and disorder. His loyalty and strong leadership made him almost indispensable.
When he died, it was believed that no greater honor could be given to his memory than to appoint his son as his successor. This decision was against the normal rule of Ottoman policy. However, the unusual nature of the appointment made it even more glorious for the Köprülü family.
The Rise of Köprülü Fazıl Ahmed Pasha
The son, Köprülü Fazıl Ahmed Pasha, was still young at the time of his appointment. He was not yet thirty years old and had only held the position of a judge, known as a kadı. Under ordinary circumstances, his age and limited experience would have prevented him from rising so quickly.
However, his father had carefully prepared him. He had shared with him the knowledge of state affairs and the methods he used to restore order. It was argued that the political situation still required the same strong approach. Therefore, continuing the father’s policies through the son seemed wise and necessary.
A Rare but Strategic Exception
This event was a rare departure from Ottoman custom. It did not mean that hereditary rule in high office became common. Instead, it showed that special circumstances could sometimes change the normal rules.
The succession of Köprülü Fazıl Ahmed Pasha was not simply an act of family favor. It was a political decision based on the belief that stability and continuity were more important than strict tradition. In this case, the Empire chose experience, preparation, and proven loyalty over established policy.