Summer Reading Recommendations
Tides of History
Analyzing the State Building by Ottomans in 15th Century
The book '1453, the Holy War for Constantinople and the Clash of Islam and the West' by Roger Crowley delves into the conquest of Constantinople by the Ottomans in 1453. It highlights how this event was a pivotal moment at the cusp of the Middle Ages and the early modern period, showcasing the complexity and significance of the era. The author sheds light on the Ottomans' state-building efforts during a time when kings across Europe were similarly engaged in such endeavors. The narrative challenges the West-centric view of state-building by recognizing the Ottomans' remarkable achievements in building a sophisticated and successful state, often overshadowed by the Ottoman Empire's later decline. The book also brings forth the character of Mehmet the Conqueror, portraying him as a ruthless and talented political figure of the age and placing him alongside other notable figures of European history from that period. Overall, the book provides a detailed and insightful exploration of the political landscape, personal dynamics, and state-building efforts during the mid-15th century, emphasizing the significance of the fall of Constantinople as a crucial event in the later Middle Ages.
