FROM ZERO TO HERO: THE HISTORY OF THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE (1299-1566 AD)

Abstract

ABSTRACT – This research investigates the origins of the Ottoman Empire from the time they wandered from their homeland to the establishment of the empire, which eventually expanded across Asia, Africa, and Europe. The dynamics that led to its transformation into a major and influential empire over an extended period are of particular interest. This study is a literature review that utilizes a qualitative descriptive method with a historical approach, comprising four steps: heuristic, verification, interpretation, and historiography. The findings indicate that the Turks originated from Central Asia. They migrated in search of a better life, free from Mongol disruptions and terror. During their lengthy journey, they lost their supreme leader, Sulaiman, who drowned in the suddenly swelling Euphrates River as they were crossing it, leading to the tribe splitting into two groups. The first group, led by Sankurtakin and Kun-Togdai, the first and second sons of Sulaiman, did not continue the journey but returned to their homeland. Meanwhile, the second group, led by Erthogrol and Dandan, the third and fourth sons of Sulaiman, continued their journey to Turkistan and eventually reached Anatolia. It was this second group that later transformed into the Ottoman Empire.