Dan Snow's History Hit The Fall of Constantinople
12 snips
Dec 30, 2024 
In a fascinating discussion, Professor Mark David Baer, a leading expert on Ottoman history from the London School of Economics, dives into the dramatic fall of Constantinople in 1453. He highlights how Mehmed II's long-held dream culminated in the end of the Eastern Roman Empire. The podcast also explores the transformative changes post-conquest, including surprising policies of inclusivity and infrastructural growth. Baer reveals the psychological turmoil faced by defenders, underscoring the event's profound historical impact on Europe and Asia.
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Constantinople's Significance
- Constantinople held immense symbolic importance for both Christians and Muslims in the 15th century.
- For Christians, it was the Second Rome, while Muslims saw it as a coveted prize mentioned by the Prophet Muhammad.
Culmination of a Long Struggle
- The Ottoman siege of Constantinople in 1453 was the culmination of centuries of Muslim attempts to conquer the city.
- Its strategic location dividing Ottoman territories made it a prime target.
Mehmed II's Motivation
- Mehmed II, the Ottoman sultan, was motivated to conquer Constantinople to prove himself to his father and the empire.
- He felt a need to surpass his father's achievements and establish his own legacy.
