Suleiman “The Magnificent”

Overview

From the 13th century onwards, the Ottomans rose from a small principality to become one of the most famous empires of the Early Modern World - most especially during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, whose leadership sent shockwaves through Christendom. 

As the longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman empire from 1520 until his death in 1566, Suleiman sought alliances with European empires for the first time. Revolutionising the face of 16th century global politics, the language of power subsequently shifted from the sword to silk, as expansion and domination of the west pivoted to diplomacy and trade. 

In this lecture, Dr Lauren Mackay explores the unique politics, warfare and complex personal relationships that generated the extraordinary Ottoman “Renaissance” which characterised Suleiman's reign, and also considers the unprecedented role the Ottomans played in the Early Modern World.