## TL;DR

The Ottoman Empire (1299-1922) was one of history's longest-lasting empires, spanning Southeast Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. Founded by Osman I, peaked under Suleiman the Magnificent (1520-1566). Istanbul (formerly Constantinople) was its capital. Dissolved after WWI, succeeded by modern Turkey.

## Core Explanation

Mehmed II conquered Constantinople (1453, age 21) — ended Byzantine Empire. Millet system: religious communities governed themselves under Ottoman law. Suleiman: legal reforms, cultural golden age, expansion into Europe (besieged Vienna 1529). Decline: military obsolescence, nationalist movements, 'Sick Man of Europe.' WWI: sided with Central Powers, lost Arab territories. Ataturk founded Republic of Turkey (1923).

## Further Reading

- [Osman's Dream: The History of the Ottoman Empire (Caroline Finkel)](https://www.basicbooks.com/titles/caroline-finkel/osmans-dream/9780465023974/)