The Fez Factory in the Village
In a small village near Constantinople, there is a factory where the fezzes worn by Turkish soldiers are made. These traditional red hats are...
European Influence in the Ottoman Imperial Harem
Introduction to Cultural Change
By the late 19th century, the Ottoman Imperial Harem had undergone dramatic changes from its traditional roots. What was once a...
Life of the Sultanas
Women in the Ottoman Imperial Harem
What Were Sultanas?
The women who lived in the Ottoman Imperial Harem were called sultanas. This title applied to all...
The Ottoman Imperial Harem
A Historical Institution
Introduction to the Imperial Harem System
The Ottoman Imperial Harem was a complex institution that served as both the private quarters of the...
The Night of Worry
"Not at all, not at all!" my dragoman said. "I was afraid those Bulgarians might come back and burn down the tower. Let's leave...
A Comfortable Room
The best room in the tower was very nice. It had beautiful carpets, couches with soft cushions, and large mirrors and colorful pictures on...
An Unexpected Help
While I sat by the stream trying to cheer myself up with a pipe, since there was no dinner that night, an old man...
Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror’s Conquest Letters
Strengthening Bonds with Mecca
Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror continued the tradition of sending conquest letters, known as “be§aretname,” to announce the conquest of Istanbul. These...
Diplomatic Correspondence and Gift Exchange
Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror’s Announcement of the Conquest of Istanbul
Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror continued the tradition of announcing conquests to the Islamic world through...
Ottoman Diplomacy and Wealth
Accumulation During Sultan Murad II’s Reign
Diplomatic Endeavors and Treaty Agreements
During both periods of Sultan Murad II’s reign, the Ottomans were engaged in military campaigns...
