In Chapter 4, we learned about Osman and Orhan Ghazi who were ruling from Bursa. This chapter takes about Sultan Murad and Sultan Bayezid who were ruling from Edirne.

SULTAN MURAD I (1362-1389)

Murad I, also known as Murad Hüdavendigâr, was the third Ottoman Sultan, reigning from 1362 to 1389, and is remembered as a pivotal figure in the early expansion of the Ottoman Empire. Under his leadership, the Ottomans significantly extended their territories into the Balkans, marking the first major push of Ottoman power into Europe. Murad I’s reign saw important military victories, such as the Battle of Maritsa (1371) and the Battle of Kosovo (1389), where he secured Ottoman dominance in the region. He also instituted key administrative reforms, including the establishment of the Janissaries, an elite military corps that would become the backbone of Ottoman military power. Murad I’s legacy lies in his successful consolidation of Ottoman rule in both Anatolia and Europe, laying the groundwork for the future expansion of the empire.

Learn more about Sultan Murad I by going through the Presentation below, reading the Notes, watching the Videos and attempting the Assignment.

Videos:

SULTAN BAYEZID I (1389-1402)

Bayezid I, also known as Bayezid the Thunderbolt (Yıldırım Bayezid), was the fourth Ottoman Sultan, ruling from 1389 to 1402. He ascended to the throne following the death of his father, Murad I, at the Battle of Kosovo. Bayezid I is renowned for his swift and aggressive expansion of Ottoman territory, particularly in the Balkans and Anatolia. His military prowess earned him the nickname “Thunderbolt,” as he rapidly conquered territories and solidified Ottoman control in Europe. Bayezid also strengthened central authority within the empire, initiating reforms to consolidate power. However, his reign ended dramatically after his defeat and capture by Timur at the Battle of Ankara in 1402, which led to a period of civil war and temporary instability for the Ottoman Empire. Despite this, Bayezid’s efforts greatly contributed to the empire’s early growth and military strength.

Learn more about Sultan Bayezid I by going through the Presentation below, reading the Notes, watching the Videos and attempting the Assignment.

Videos:

How the Ottomans Became Sultans of Rum – Kirkdilim 1391

First Major Ottoman Defeat – Battle of Rovine 1395

Battle of Nicopolis 1396 Hungarian Crusade 

Battle of Ankara 1402 Ottoman – Timurid War