Ottoman Empire Key Terms: Millets, Devshirme, Janissary, and More

What was the Devshirme system in the Ottoman Empire?

A practice of recruiting boys from Christian families to serve in the military and administrative roles.

What is a Janissary?

An elite military unit of the Ottoman Empire, originally composed of conscripted boys from the Devshirme system.

What does Kanun refer to in the context of the Ottoman Empire?

A set of secular laws established by the Sultan, separate from religious laws.

What is the role of a Sultan in the Ottoman Empire?

The sovereign ruler and head of state, holding absolute power.

What was Jizya?

A tax levied on non-Muslims in the Ottoman Empire as a form of protection and exemption from military service.

What does Tanzimat refer to?

A series of reforms in the 19th century aimed at modernizing the Ottoman Empire and centralizing power.

What does it mean for a state to be Secular?

A separation of religion from governmental institutions and laws.

Who were the Young Ottomans?

A group of reformist intellectuals in the late 19th century advocating for modernization and constitutional governance.

What is the role of Viziers in the Ottoman Empire?

High-ranking officials who assisted the Sultan in governance and administration.

What is the significance of the Grand Vizier?

The chief minister and highest-ranking vizier, often acting as the Sultan's deputy.

What is the Ulama?

A body of Muslim scholars and jurists who interpret Islamic law and provide religious guidance.