HISTORY MISC Ottoman Empire Case Study

Part I: Ottoman Development and Expansion Document Based on this document, how and/or why did the Ottoman Empire develop and expand from 1450 to 1750? 1 Map of Ottoman Expansion The Ottoman Empire is a land-based empire which followed parts of the Silk Road and the Trans-Saharan trade routes. The trade routes assisted the Ottomans in their conquest and allowed them to reach the various places they wanted to conquer. 2 The History of Mehmed the Conqueror What specific military tactics, units, and weapons were utilized in the siege of Constantinople? Cannons, Janissaries, and other heavy infantry were utilized. The cannons were the main reason that Constantinople fell because Constantinople relied on its strong fortifications for defense; however, the cannons were able to get through that defense. The Ottomans also had specific people-the Janissariestrained to specifically use the artillery; therefore, the Ottoman’s were more effective in their use of cannons. The Ottomans also outnumbered the Byzantinians and had an advantage in their infantry. According to the author, what role did Mehmed II play in this siege? Mehmed II lead the attack, fought alongside his men, and increased his men’s morale. He also guided his men so that they deliver the most effective attack on Constantinople as they can. How could you source this document? According to document #2… Document #2 states… The document by Kritovoulos sa