How did the Ottomans integrate conquered peoples and lands?

The Ottomans integrated conquered peoples and lands through a system of administrative, religious, and social assimilation.

The Ottoman Empire, which spanned three continents and lasted for over six centuries, was a master of integration. The empire's success in this regard was largely due to its administrative system. The Ottomans implemented a system known as the 'millet' system, which allowed each religious community or ethnic group within the empire to govern itself under its own laws. This system was designed to ensure that the diverse peoples of the empire could maintain their own religious and cultural practices, while still being part of the Ottoman state. This approach was not only pragmatic, but also helped to maintain peace and stability within the empire.

Religion also played a significant role in the integration process. The Ottomans were predominantly Muslim, but they were tolerant of other religions. They allowed Christians and Jews to practice their faith freely, and even allowed them to hold positions of power within the empire. This religious tolerance was a key factor in the successful integration of conquered peoples, as it helped to foster a sense of unity and mutual respect among the empire's diverse population.

The Ottomans also used social assimilation as a tool for integration. They implemented a policy known as 'devshirme', which involved the systematic recruitment of boys from Christian families in the Balkans. These boys were converted to Islam, educated in Ottoman schools, and trained for service in the empire's military or administrative apparatus. This policy not only helped to assimilate the conquered peoples into Ottoman society, but also served to create a loyal and efficient administrative and military elite.

In addition, the Ottomans were adept at incorporating the cultures of the peoples they conquered. They adopted and adapted various aspects of Byzantine, Persian, and Arab culture, among others. This cultural assimilation not only enriched Ottoman culture, but also helped to create a sense of shared identity among the empire's diverse population.

In conclusion, the Ottomans were able to successfully integrate conquered peoples and lands through a combination of administrative, religious, and social assimilation. This approach allowed them to maintain a vast and diverse empire for over six centuries.