Ottoman Empire

Different religions were tolerated within the empire however a system known as the millet system was used. What was this system and how was it used?

A millet was a separate court of law pertaining to "personal law" under which a confessional community such as a group abiding by the laws of Muslim Sharia, Christian Canon law, or Jewish Halakha, was allowed to rule itself under its own laws.

What occurred after the fall of Constantinople and what was its name changed to?

It marked the end of the Byzantine Empire, a continuation of the Roman Empire and the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople also dealt a massive blow to Christendom. It was renamed to Istanbul.

How long did it take for Constantinople to fall?

It was formed in 330 and after ten centuries of wars, defeats, and victories, the Byzantine Empire came to an end when Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Turks in May 1453.

What was significant about the location of this city?

It was one of the largest trade route stops, mostly due to its strategic position commanding the trade routes between the Aegean Sea and the Black Sea.

Describe the transformation of the most notable cathedral within the Ottoman Empire?

The Hagia Sophia, whose name means "holy wisdom," is a domed monument originally built as a cathedral in Constantinople but the Ottoman rulers decided to convert it into a mosque. The inside and out were renovated and added onto, including four minarets and pillars.

Describe how the Ottoman Empire was created and for whom the Empire was named for?

The Ottoman Empire was founded by Osman I and was created when young Osman was inspired to conquest after the byzantine empire was weakened and broken apart.

What event occurring in Europe ultimately led to the downfall of Ottoman Empire?

The Ottomans lost most of their empire after losing World War 1. After they were shrunk, the empire fell apart and is now called Turkey.

What was significant about the Siege of Constantinople?

The capture of Constantinople by the Ottoman Empire was significant for both the Turks and for the Europeans because it represented a major defeat for the forces of Christianity and a major triumph for those of Islam.

In order to maintain the royal lineage of the Sultan, this system was put in place to ensure proper hierarchy was maintained. What was it called and describe how it was carried out.

The central government comprised of the Sultan at the top position and his staff. This was known as the House of Osman and this house was advised by the Divan. The Divan was also further subdivided and this is how the central government functioned. There was a systemic administrative organization in the empire which developed further into a dual system of civil administration and military administration. The entire hierarchical structure consisted of many positions, levels and areas of governance and rule.

A large majority of Sultans lived in royal palaces called what? How were they laid out and what was always a constant danger?

They were called Sultan palaces and every few rulers would switch between palaces and new ones were made every couple of rulers. the layouts were usually open which could cause danger to the rulers because they are too exposed.

Science and medicine were important subjects studied in the Ottoman Empire. What devices can the medical world thank the Ottomans for creating? (at least three)

We can thank them for the Astronomical Clock, the Istanbul Observatory, and increased perfection of cartography.

The 14th century saw the creation devshirme system within the Ottoman Empire. What did this system entail and primarily what kind of soldier was produced from this?

the Ottoman Empire sent military officers to take boys from their families in Europe in order that they be raised to serve the state. This tax of sons was imposed only on the Christian subjects of the empire. The boys were then forcibly converted to Islam with the primary objective of selecting and training the ablest children and teenagers for the military or civil service of the empire, notably into the Janissaries.