The Ottoman Empire's Expansion and Diversity

The Ottoman Empire, which began in the late 1200s, transformed into a vast power by the 16th century, encompassing areas from Iran to North Africa. This expansion was fueled by a unique approach to governance that included integrating various ethnic and religious groups into its administration and military. For instance, Christian boys were recruited through the devshirme system, converted to Islam, and trained as soldiers or administrators, thus becoming vital to the Empire's structure. The Ottomans also included Jews, Christians, and other minorities, granting them a notable degree of autonomy and rights compared to contemporary European powers, emphasizing a complex tapestry of cultural integration and diversity in governance.