Analyze why the Ottomans chose the term sultan for their leader. (1 point)
Responses
It was the name of the spiritual leader of Islam.
It was the name of the spiritual leader of Islam.
It was given to the Ottoman leaders by Muhammad.
It was given to the Ottoman leaders by Muhammad.
The name gave the impression Ottoman rulers were liked by caliphs.
The name gave the impression Ottoman rulers were liked by caliphs.
It sounded important when spoken.
The most accurate response is: It was the name of the spiritual leader of Islam.
The Ottoman Empire, which was founded in the 13th century, was a Muslim-majority state. The term "sultan" was already established in Islamic history as the title for the ruler or leader of a Muslim state. By adopting the title of sultan, the Ottomans aligned themselves with the Muslim tradition and emphasized their connection to Islam. This helped to legitimize their rule and gain support from the Muslim population. The Ottomans did not receive the title directly from Muhammad, as suggested in one of the responses, but rather it was a commonly used title in Islamic governance. The belief that the name gave the impression that Ottoman rulers were liked by caliphs, as stated in another response, is not accurate as caliphs were the successors of Muhammad in leading the Muslim community and the Ottomans were not caliphs themselves. Lastly, the suggestion that the term sounded important when spoken is subjective and does not directly explain why the Ottomans chose the term "sultan" for their leader.