Perhaps the largest most powerful empire in the history of the world, the Ottoman Empire reigned for seven centuries. Led by one family throughout the years, they ruled in an unbroken line. From the 13th to the 20th century, this dynasty was led by 36 different rulers. One of the empires greatest feats was that in the entire seven centuries, no foreign power ever gained the throne. The Western world called them Ottoman, but their Turkish name is Osmanli, taken from the first ruler of the Ottoman state, Osman. .
It all started in 1300 when some refugee Turks led by Osman began to try to take the western side of Turkey. The people they where attacking where Orthodox Christians. Osman and his men ran along the countryside and gained attention by stealing sheep, men, and taking all their possessions. Finally after some time the Emperor of the Byzantines gets caught up in the melee and gets some troops out to get rid of Osman and the refugee Turks. His army finally meets up with the refugee Turks led by Osman. Without much delay Osman and his men charge right into them. This attack disbands the Byzantine army and furthermore makes Osman a very popular man. Turkey soon after declares him "Gozy Osman" which meant "great holy warrior". Hundreds of Turks now come to join with him and Osman now has an army. .
Now Osman, with his new power, starts to attack close villages and with this his small empire starts to expand. His number one objective is to take a city. In 1326, he does just that! As his men surround the city, Osmans son comes to his dying bed and hears from his father, "You are destined for great things, You are now, Sultan!". Osmans son, Orhan is now the new emperor. .
Orhan Sultan dreams of conquering Byzantine lands and as he realized his power he begins to do so. The Emperor of the remaining Byzantine lands asks Orhan for help. He offers to pay Orhan for men to fight against the Orthodox Christians.
