Estimating the Strength of the Ottoman Cavalry
The Importance of the Zaims and Timariots The Zaims and Timariots formed the backbone of the Ottoman cavalry for many […]
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Muslim Prayer and a European Observer’s Opinion
A Scene of Quiet Worship The writer continues describing the way Muslims prayed, especially in the Ottoman Empire. He says
The Followers of the Kalenderi Santon
The Character of the Santon The Santon, or holy man, described in the previous section was known for his strict
Influence and Corruption of the Sect
These people were easily persuaded to give false testimony in favor of their sect, often ignoring fairness or reason. They
The Two Main Sects Turks and Persians
Among the followers of Mahomet, there are two major sects whose members are often hostile toward each other: the Turks
Restrictions on Christian Churches
The Mahometan religion allowed Christians to keep their old churches and houses of worship, but with strict limits. Churches and
The Importance of Skilled Interpreters
One of the biggest challenges for ambassadors in the Ottoman Empire was that most interpreters were born subjects of the
Cesare Borgia and the Rule of Romagna
When Cesare Borgia wanted to secure control over the region of Romagna, which he had recently conquered, he used a
Absolute Obedience to the Sultan
Another result of this strict system of government was the complete obedience shown to the Grand Signior, or Sultan. Great
The Province of Damascus (Scham)
The fourth great province of the Ottoman Empire was Scham, better known as Damascus. This province held a very important