Ottoman-Turkish Empire (1700-1919)

Ottoman-Turkish Empire (1700-1919)

Ottoman decline in the 17th century

Although the empire remained large and wealthy, the 17th century saw fewer military successes and a general decline in the empire's power. A period of strength between 1623 and 1640, during the reign of Murad IV, saw the Ottomans extend the empire further eastwards by taking Baghdad from the Safavids. However, in the 16 years following Murad's death, a succession of weak young sultans threw the empire into constant crisis. The situation was only resolved when Koprulu Mohammed Pasha was appointed as grand vizier (first minister) in 1656. He and his successor, Koprulu Fazi Ahmed Pasha (his son), reformed the Ottoman government ...