Osman's Dream: The History of the Ottoman Empire

In May, I finished reading Osman's Dream: The History of the Ottoman Empire by Caroline Finkel. During our trips to the Turkey, Eygpt and the Balkans, I was fascinated by the breath of the Ottoman Empire. I went looking for a book about the history of the empire.

The Book is a comprehensive account of one of the world's longest-lasting empires. The book traces the Ottoman Empire's trajectory from its nomadic origins in the late 13th century (1299) to its dissolution in the early 20th century (1922). The "dream" in the title refers to a foundational myth of Osman I, the empire's founder, who reportedly had a vision of a tree growing from his navel, symbolizing the vast and enduring empire his descendants would establish.

The book is structured chronologically, moving through key periods and events. Finkel explores the empire's rapid expansion under powerful sultans like Mehmed the Conqueror and Suleiman the Magnificent, detailing their military strategies and political innovations. She also delves into the complexities of Ottoman society, examining the roles of the diverse populations within its borders, including Muslims, Christians, and Jews. Finkel discusses the challenges posed by internal rebellions, external pressures from European powers, and the gradual erosion of central authority. The book culminates with the empire's final struggles in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to its collapse after World War I and the rise of modern Turkey.

Just a few key points from the book include:

• The Ottoman Empire conquered Egypt in 1517. Egypt, along with the Levant and the Hejaz (which included the holy cities of Mecca and Medina), were incorporated into the Ottoman Empire as provinces. This significantly shifted the Ottoman Empire's focus and solidified its position as the leading power in the Islamic world.
• The Ottoman Empire was never able to conquer all of Iran and incorporate it into their empire, despite numerous attempts and prolonged wars. The rivalry between the Ottoman Empire (predominantly Sunni Muslim) and the Safavid Empire of Persia (predominantly Shia Muslim) was one of the most enduring geopolitical struggles in Islamic history, spanning centuries.
• In 1529 and 1683, the Ottoman army reached Vienna, but both times the seige failed.
• In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Ottoman Empire and the Russian Empire clashed repeatedly for control of Crimea, a strategically vital peninsula on the Black Sea. This rivalry was a key part of the larger Russo-Turkish Wars.
• The Janissaries were the most famous and impactful of the Ottoman army's factions. Originally an elite infantry corps formed from Christian boys levied through the devshirme system, they were initially fiercely loyal and highly effective. However, over time, their power grew immense, and their discipline and loyalty began to wane. The Janissaries were responsible for overthrowing and murdering several sultans.
• In my ignorance, I didn't realize Jerusalem's significance as a holy city in Islam. At the site of the Temple Mount (where the Dome of the Rock now stands), Muhammad is said to have led a prayer with all the previous prophets, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. From Jerusalem, Muhammad ascended through the seven levels of heaven.

The book is a load. It is a dizzying pile of names and places. While I am glad that I fought my way through it, I don't recommend it.

A footnote, I am very disappointed in myself over the last several months. Dating back to 1991, I have kept a list of the books that I have read. My goal has always been one book a month. I have done a great job accomplishing that goal. I lost momentum this year. My routine for years has been finding someplace quiet to hide and read at lunch. When I retired, I continued that routine; I would eat lunch in the kitchen and read. The kitchen remodel destoryed that rhythm.