Last Muslim Conquest: The Ottoman Empire and Its Wars in Europe

The Last Muslim Conquest is a monumental work of history that reveals the Ottoman dynasty's important role in the emergence of early modern Europe. It shows how Ottoman statecraft was pragmatic and sophisticated, and how the dynasty was a crucial player in the power struggles of early modern Europe. The book discusses how the Ottoman wars of conquest gave rise to the imperial rivalry with the Habsburgs and looks at Ottoman military capabilities, frontier management, law, diplomacy, and intelligence.

Format: Hardback
Length: 688 pages
Publication date: 22 June 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press

The Ottomans have long been perceived as despots who achieved dominance through sheer military force, and their dynasty was considered peripheral to those of Europe. However, The Last Muslim Conquest, a monumental work of history, challenges these perceptions and reveals the significant role that the Ottoman dynasty played in the emergence of early modern Europe.

In this comprehensive and multifaceted book, Gábor Ágoston takes readers on a sweeping journey through Ottoman history, spanning from the dynasty's rise to power in the early 14th century to the Siege of Vienna in 1683, which marked the end of Ottoman incursions into central Europe. Ágoston delves into the intricate power struggles of early modern Europe, discussing how the Ottoman wars of conquest led to the imperial rivalry with the Habsburgs. He vividly portrays the intrigues of sultans, kings, popes, and spies, shedding light on the complex web of alliances and rivalries that shaped the region.

Ágoston also examines the subtler methods of Ottoman conquest, such as dynastic marriages and the incorporation of conquered peoples into the Ottoman administration. He argues that while the Ottoman Empire was influenced by Turkish, Iranian, and Islamic cultures, it was also an integral part of Europe and, in many ways, a European empire. The Last Muslim Conquest offers a rich narrative detailing Ottoman military capabilities, frontier management, law, diplomacy, and intelligence. It provides new perspectives on the gradual shift in power between the Ottomans and their European rivals, reframing the old story of Ottoman decline.

Through its comprehensive analysis, The Last Muslim Conquest sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of the Ottoman Empire, challenging preconceived notions and providing a fresh understanding of its historical significance. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of history and will interest scholars, researchers, and anyone with an interest in the early modern world.

Weight: 1082g
Dimension: 173 x 243 x 54 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691159324