FAQ About Magnificent Suleiman
How did Suleiman become the Sultan?
Suleiman became the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire following the death of his father, Sultan Selim I. The Ottoman succession system was based on the principle of primogeniture, where the eldest living son of the reigning Sultan was generally chosen as the heir.
Sultan Selim I, Suleiman's father, died on September 22, 1520. Selim I was a successful military commander who had expanded the Ottoman Empire through conquests. Before his death, Selim I had designated Suleiman as his heir, and this choice was communicated to the members of the Ottoman court, including the viziers and military leaders.
Upon Selim I's death, Suleiman was quick to secure the support of the military and key officials. The customary procedure involved the new Sultan presenting himself at the imperial court, where he would be formally recognized as the ruler. Suleiman was officially proclaimed Sultan on September 30, 1520, just eight days after the death of his father. He took the throne with the regnal name "Suleiman I" and commenced a reign that would become one of the most significant in Ottoman history.
