The Principles of Ottoman Power and Survival
Dismissing Warnings and Overconfidence Some of the Janissary officers strongly advised that the Vizier should be removed at once, using […]
The Vizier Faces the Janissary Leaders
A Cold and Calculated Reception When the Grand Vizier arrived at the mosque, Bektas Aga did not come forward to
Secret Plots Against the Young Sultan
Janissary Doubts and False Promises The Janissaries were openly opposed to the new Grand Vizier, knowing well that he did
Crisis at the Court of the Grand Signior
Advice from the Inner Circle During this dangerous moment, the Grand Signior received urgent advice from two powerful figures within
The Corruption of Bektas Aga
False Wealth and Debased Coinage On the opposite side stood Bektas Aga, who felt completely secure in his position and
The Rise of Janissary Power
The Retreat of the Spahis After failing to achieve their demands, the Spahis withdrew and scattered to their own regions.
Fear Ambition and Rival Factions at Court
The Mother’s Growing Fear The Sultan’s mother, already shaken by the violent death of her husband, soon became deeply fearful
The Ambition of the Old Queen
The Rise of a Child Sultan After the death of Sultan Ibrahim, who was killed by a conspiracy of the
The Fall of Feminine Rule
Growing Anger Among the Soldiers For a long time, the government was effectively ruled by women and court favorites. This
Obedience and Discipline in the Turkish Military
The Training of Absolute Obedience Obedience was carefully taught and deeply instilled in the Turkish military. This discipline began early