God's Shadow: The Ottoman Sultan Who Shaped the Modern World

The Ottoman Empire was a hub of intellectual fervor, geopolitical power, and enlightened pluralistic rule, led by Sultan Selim I (1470-1520). Alan Mikhail's book redefines global history, focusing on Selim's life and the impact of the Ottoman Empire and Islam on world-changing events.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 03 June 2021
Publisher: Faber & Faber

The Ottoman Empire, a captivating and exhilarating era, thrived as a vibrant center of intellectual vitality, geopolitical dominance, and enlightened pluralistic governance. At the forefront of its ascendancy stood the mighty Sultan Selim I (1470-1520), an indomitable figure who wielded immense power and influence. In his groundbreaking work, Alan Mikhail delves deep into the Ottoman Empire and Islam, positioning them as the pivotal forces that shaped global history. Mikhail's meticulous account vividly retells the life of Selim I, offering a fresh perspective that profoundly redefines our understanding of a world that we once believed we had grasped.

The Ottoman Empire, a sprawling empire that stretched across continents, was a testament to the power and influence of Islam. Under the rule of Sultan Selim I, the empire experienced a period of remarkable growth and prosperity. Selim I was a skilled diplomat and a wise leader who was able to navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries that characterized the medieval world. He was also a patron of the arts and literature, and his reign saw the flourishing of Islamic culture and science.

One of the most significant achievements of Sultan Selim I was his conquest of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. This conquest marked the end of the Byzantine Empire and the beginning of the Ottoman Empire's dominance in the Mediterranean region. Selim I's victory was a significant milestone in world history, as it paved the way for the spread of Islam and the expansion of the Ottoman Empire.

In addition to his military conquests, Sultan Selim I was also a reformer. He introduced a number of policies that aimed to modernize the empire and improve the lives of its citizens. He abolished the slave trade, promoted education and literacy, and established a system of justice that was based on the principles of Islam.

Sultan Selim I's legacy is still felt today, and his empire continues to be a source of fascination and study. His reign marked a turning point in world history, and his policies and achievements have had a lasting impact on the development of modern society. The Ottoman Empire, with its rich cultural heritage and profound influence on world politics, remains a fascinating and important subject of study.

In conclusion, the Ottoman Empire was a remarkable empire that thrived as a center of intellectual vitality, geopolitical power, and enlightened pluralistic rule. Sultan Selim I, the empire's most influential ruler, was a skilled diplomat and a wise leader who was able to navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries that characterized the medieval world. His conquest of Constantinople and his reforms marked a significant milestone in world history, and his legacy continues to be felt today. The Ottoman Empire, with its rich cultural heritage and profound influence on world politics, remains a fascinating and important subject of study.

Weight: 422g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571331949
Edition number: Main