The Ottoman Empire

1453 – 1600

The early Ottoman Empire (1453-1600) was a time of great expansion. After capturing Constantinople in 1453, the Ottomans grew their empire across Europe, Asia, and Africa. They were known for their powerful military, rich culture, and strong administration under leaders like Suleyman the Magnificent.

Chapter books

Leyla: The Black Tulip (Girls of Many Lands)

Compelling story of a slave girl sold into life in the Ottoman court
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Non-fiction books

Mosque

Beautifully detailed exploration of mosque building and use, set in the early Ottoman Empire
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Life During the Great Civilizations – The Ottoman Empire

Accessible introduction to life in the Ottoman Empire
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Biographies

Suleyman the Magnificent and the Ottoman Empire

Great introduction to Suleyman and the Ottoman Empire, with primary source excerpts
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Redbeard (True-Life Pirates)

Story of Redbeard, a real pirate from the Ottoman empire
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Vlad the Impaler (A Wicked History)

Story of the infamous Vlad the Impaler
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