Mehmed II Suleiman the Magnificent Think What do

Mehmed II & Suleiman the Magnificent

Think • What do we know about the Byzantine Empire and Constantinople?

The Ottomans • During the late 1200 s, Turkish clans settled part of Asia Minor. • They called themselves the Ottoman Turks.

Takeover of Constantinople • The Ottomans conquered much of the Byzantine Empire. • In 1453, the Ottoman ruler Mehmett (Mehmed) II, known as the “Conqueror”, seized Constantinople. • The Ottomans renamed the city Istanbul and made it their capital

Economic Consequences • Remember: Constantinople was at the CENTER of trade between Europe and Asia. • The Ottomans now were the new “toll keepers” of trade. The Ottomans raised taxes. • This caused the Europeans to search for an overseas route to trade ( sparked exploration!) • The Ottomans also pushed into SE Europe, SW Asia, and North Africa. The Ottomans controlled much of the Mediterranean region until the late 1500 s.

Suleiman I (1494 -1566) • The Ottoman leader was called a sultan. • The most famous Ottoman Sultan was Suleiman I. • He was called “The Lawgiver” because he organized Ottoman laws. • Suleiman I also built many schools and mosques throughout the empire.

Activity • Read the article and answer the questions in your notes in complete sentences!

Extension • Follow the directions to create either a “Business Card” or an “Executive Voicemail” for Suleiman I