The Ottoman Empire was a powerful state that controlled much of southeastern Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa for over 600 years, from around 1300 until 1922. At its height in the 1500s and 1600s, it stretched from Hungary to the Persian Gulf, and from Algeria to the gates of Vienna. The empire's capital, Constantinople (now Istanbul), sat at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, making it one of the world's most important cities for centuries.

The Ottomans were skilled at administration, creating a vast government system that held together dozens of different peoples and cultures. They were also known for military prowess, especially their elite soldiers called Janissaries. The empire produced magnificent architecture, including the stunning mosques designed by the architect Sinan, and made important advances in mathematics, astronomy, and cartography.

Over time, the empire weakened as European powers grew stronger, and it finally dissolved after World War I, when the modern nation of Turkey emerged from its heartland.

An ottoman (with a lowercase “o”) is also a padded footstool or low seat without a back or arms. This piece of furniture became popular in Europe after traders brought the style back from Ottoman territories, where people traditionally sat on low cushions and divans rather than chairs.