Founded by Osman I in Söğüt in 1299. Conquered Constantinople in 1453, making it Istanbul. Expanded into Europe and Balkans after 1354. Reached peak under Suleiman the Magnificent (1520-1566)
Born in Mehmed-Kanije in 1517, possibly Bosnian or Croatian through Devşirme system. Graduated from Ottoman military schools and served in Battle of Keresztes in 1596. Married Ayşe Sultan in 1586, becoming governor of Egypt
Ottoman conquest started in 1384, Bosnia fell in 1463, Herzegovina in 1482. First occupation administration established in 1527. Gradual conversion to Islam took over a hundred years
Born as Christian Pietro in Parga, enslaved during Ottoman-Venetian war. Raised by İskender Paşa's daughter and presented to Prince Süleyman. Gained Süleyman's confidence and friendship, participated in campaigns
Ottoman Classical Army established by Mehmed II in 14th century. Army divided into central (Kapu Kulu) and peripheral (Eyalet) units. Sultan Mahmud II abolished army in 1826 after century of reform
Janissaries were elite Ottoman soldiers established by Sultan Orhan in 1365. Christian boys from Balkans were recruited through devshirme system. Recruits were trained for 4-8 years before becoming Janissaries