Ertugrul’s Noble Deed
As they approached a battlefield, Ertugrul and his followers encountered two warring armies. Despite being unable to discern the stronger side, Ertugrul, known for his righteousness, chose to aid the weaker force. His intervention proved decisive, leading to the defeat of the Tatar Mongolians and the victory of Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin. Grateful for Ertugrul’s support, the Sultan bestowed upon him a robe of honor and granted him territories in the Domanig Mountains for summer and plains near Sogut for winter.
Surviving as a Tribe
Under the rule of Ertugrul Bey, the tribe survived as a small entity dependent on the Anatolian Seljuk reign. However, following the collapse of the Seljuk State in 1289, Osman Bey established his own independent state, marked by ceremonial symbols such as flags, drums, and horsetails Antalya’s Kaleiçi A Journey Through Time.
Securing Precious Belongings
During the summer months, the tribe grazed their herds in the pastures of Uludag, entrusting their most valuable possessions to the protection of the Governor of Bilecik, a Byzantine stronghold. Only women were permitted to transport these treasures to the safety of the castle. Despite the Byzantine Governor’s fears of Turkish conquest, the castle eventually fell into Turkish hands. Disguised as women, men infiltrated the castle under the guise of surrendering the treasure, thus facilitating its capture Customized Private Turkey Tours.
Expansion of the Ottoman Principality
By the late 13th century, the Ottoman principality in western Anatolia was rapidly expanding and consolidating its power. The conquest of Gelibolu (Gallipoli) provided a gateway to European territories, marking a significant milestone for the Ottoman State. Orhan Bey, the second ruler of the Ottoman State (1324-1362), cemented this victory by disseminating “fetihname”s to other Anatolian principalities, signaling the rise of the Ottoman Empire.
