In the previous chapter we studied about Ertugrul Ghazi, the father of Osman Ghazi. Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keyqubad I (d. 1237) awarded him the title of Ghazi and territories such as Karacadag, Sogut and Domanic. In this chapter, we will learn about his son, Osman and his grandson, Orhan .
OSMAN GHAZI (r.1299-1326)
Starting from these humble beginnings with just 400 horsemen, Osman Ghazi, also known as Osman I, founded the Ottoman Empire, a dynasty that would go on to become one of the most powerful and enduring empires in history. Born around 1258 in Sogut, in what is now modern-day Turkiye, Osman was the son of Ertugrul, a leader of a small Turkish principality on the western frontier of the declining Seljuk Sultanate of Rum. Under his leadership, Osman transformed his small principality into a burgeoning state, driven by his vision of expansion and conquest. Through his military prowess, strategic alliances, and charismatic leadership, Osman laid the foundations for the Ottoman Empire, which would eventually expand to rule vast territories across Europe, Asia, and Africa, leaving a profound impact on the course of world history. His legacy endures as a symbol of resilience, ambition, and statecraft, marking the beginning of an empire that would last for over six centuries.
Learn more about Osman by going through the Presentation below, reading the Notes, watching the Videos and attempting the Assignment.
Videos:
- Era of Osman Gazi | 1281-1326 | History Map of Osman Gazi
- Osman: The Man Who Founded The Ottoman Empire
- The Dream of Osman
- Rise of the Ottoman Empire – Bapheus 1302
- Bapheus Short
TV Series:
Kurulus Osman with English Subtitles
ORHAN GHAZI (r.1326-1360)
Orhan Ghazi, also known as Orhan Bey, was the second ruler of the Ottoman Empire and the son of Osman Ghazi, the empire’s founder. Born around 1281, Orhan played a pivotal role in the early expansion and consolidation of Ottoman power in the 14th century. Succeeding his father as the ruler in 1326, Orhan Ghazi continued his father’s legacy by transforming the Ottoman principality into a formidable and strategically significant state. Under his leadership, the Ottomans captured key Byzantine cities, including Bursa, which became the empire’s first capital, marking a significant shift in power in the region. Orhan also implemented important administrative and military reforms, establishing a professional army and laying the groundwork for the future growth of the Ottoman state. His reign marked a period of significant territorial expansion, stability, and the strengthening of Ottoman governance, setting the stage for the empire’s continued rise as a dominant force in both Europe and Asia.
Learn more about Orhan by going through the Presentation below, reading the Notes, watching the Videos and attempting the Assignment.
Videos
Alaq Academy 