Suleiman the Magnificent

Reign: 1520 – 1566
Life: 1494–1566

He was known as Suleiman the Magnificent. The longest reign among the Ottoman sultans, his rule brought about a notable peak in the Ottoman Empire's economic, military and political power, and raised the number of the empire's subjects to at least 25 million people. Hungary was subsequently divided, with much of it incorporated directly into the empire. Suleiman also fought for years against the Shia Islamic Safavid Empire of Iran and annexed Iraq. In North Africa, Ottoman Tripolitania was established and the Ottoman fleet dominated the seas from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea and into the Persian Gulf. Suleiman personally instituted major judicial changes pertaining to society, education, taxation, and criminal law.

During Suleiman the Magnificent's reign, Henry VIII of England ruled England, Jiajing Emperor of Ming ruled China, and Gustav I of Sweden ruled Sweden.

Want to learn more? Further reading

Lords of the Horizons: A History of the Ottoman Empire by Jason Goodwin

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The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.

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From the library

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Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

Lords of the Horizons: A History of the Ottoman Empire

Jason Goodwin

Not a biography alone, but the best short introduction to the empire at Suleiman's zenith.

Find this book on Amazon

Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.

Suleiman the Magnificent

The World During Their Reign

Meanwhile in history

Go deeper on Suleiman the Magnificent

Lords of the Horizons: A History of the Ottoman Empire

Suleiman the Magnificent

Osman's Dream: The History of the Ottoman Empire 1300–1923