The 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 how the empire was shaped by Turkish, Iranian, and Islamic influences. It also examines the subtler methods of Ottoman conquest, such as dynastic marriages and the incorporation of conquered peoples into the Ottoman administration.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 688 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2023
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 delves into the vast expanse of Ottoman history, spanning from the dynasty's remarkable ascent to power at the turn of the fourteenth century to the Siege of Vienna in 1683, which marked the end of Ottoman incursions into central Europe. He explores how the Ottoman wars of conquest sparked the imperial rivalry with the Habsburgs and brings to life the intrigues of sultans, kings, popes, and spies. Ágoston also examines the more subtle methods of Ottoman conquest, such as dynastic marriages and the integration of conquered peoples into the Ottoman administration, arguing 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 is rich in narrative detail, providing new insights into Ottoman military capabilities, frontier management, law, diplomacy, and intelligence. It offers a fresh perspective on the gradual shift in power between the Ottomans and their European rivals, reframing the old narrative of Ottoman decline.

This groundbreaking work of history sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of the Ottoman Empire, challenging our preconceived notions and providing a more nuanced understanding of its role in shaping the early modern world.

Weight: 1070g
Dimension: 160 x 239 x 43 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691205397