The Battle of Ankara, fought on July 20, 1402, between the Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I and Timur (Tamerlane), was a pivotal moment in Ottoman history. This intense clash not only reshaped the future of the Ottoman Empire but also had far-reaching consequences across the region. As one of the most significant military confrontations of its time, the results of the Battle of Ankara left the Ottoman Empire in disarray, leading to a period of internal strife known as the Ottoman Interregnum.
In this article, we will explore the long-term effects of the Battle of Ankara, analyzing how it altered the course of the empire’s development and what lessons can be learned from this historical event. By understanding the outcomes of this battle, we gain a clearer picture of the challenges faced by the Ottomans and how they eventually recovered from such a devastating defeat.
The Battle of Ankara took place between Yıldırım Bayezid and Timur on July 28, 1402. This battle, which resulted in the defeat of the Ottoman Empire, was a significant turning point in history and led to the beginning of the Interregnum. The reasons behind the war were shaped by political conflicts in Anatolia.
Ankara War
The Battle of Ankara took place on July 28, 1402, between Yıldırım Bayezid and Timur in Çubuk Plain, Ankara. This battle was one of the bloodiest and most destructive conflicts of the Late Middle Ages. This battle resulted in the defeat of the Ottoman Empire and led to the beginning of a period known as the “Interregnum” in Ottoman history.
Background and Causes of the War
While the Ottoman Empire continued to expand in the Balkans, it could not establish complete control in Anatolia. The principalities established in Anatolia during the Seljuk period continued to exist during this period. Yıldırım Bayezid wanted to unite the principalities under a single roof in order to ensure unity in Anatolia. In line with this goal, he annexed many Turkish principalities to Ottoman lands in 1400.The Timurid Empire was founded in 1370 and expanded rapidly. Timur, as the heir of the Ilkhanate, claimed rights in Anatolia. A race began between Timur and Bayezid over the Anatolian principalities. Timur’s advance in Anatolia posed a great threat to the Ottoman Empire.
Timur’s Demands from Bayezid
- Bayezid returning the lands he had taken from the Anatolian principalities
- Ahmed Celayir and Kara Yusuf were handed over to him
- Bayezid’s recognition of Timur’s sovereignty
- Giving Kemah Castle and its surroundings to Timur
- One of Bayezid’s sons was sent to Timur as a hostage
Timur’s Advance in Anatolia
Timur advanced towards Anatolia, displaying an invasive attitude against the Ottomans. Advancing to Sivas, Timur made preparations to meet Bayezid. Bayezid, on the other hand, headed towards Eastern Anatolia with the Serbs and the principalities under his protection in order to stop Timur. The two armies came face to face between Tokat and Kayseri. Timur reached Ankara, besieged the city and retreated to Çubuk Plain.
The Encounter in Çubuk Plain
Bayezid’s army was tired when they reached Çubuk Plain on July 27, 1402. Bayezid found it appropriate for his army to rest. Timur’s army was better prepared and superior. Timur saw Bayezid as an obstacle to his dream of forming the Turan Union.
Beginning of the Battle of Ankara
On the morning of July 28, 1402, the two armies formed a battle formation. Bayezid planned to use the crescent tactic, which was his tactic in the Battle of Nicopolis. However, this tactic did not work as the Azaps suffered a heavy defeat. Bayezid ordered the sipahis and janissaries to attack. The elephants and heavy cavalry units in Timur’s army surprised the Ottomans. At the end of the battle, Bayezid was defeated and captured by Timur.
Results of the Battle of Ankara
As a result of the war, Timur did not treat Bayezid as a prisoner, met his needs and approached him in a friendly manner. Timur occupied Bursa and made it his vassal and conquered Izmit. This war caused the beginning of the Interregnum in the Ottoman Empire, the delay in the establishment of the empire, the postponement of the conquest of Istanbul to a later date and the breakdown of political unity in Anatolia.
Conclusion:
The Battle of Ankara was more than just a defeat for the Ottomans; it was a turning point that tested the resilience of the empire. The immediate consequences were severe, including the capture of Sultan Bayezid and the fragmentation of Ottoman rule. However, the empire managed to survive this dark period, largely thanks to its strong foundation and future leaders who restored stability.
In conclusion, the results of the Battle of Ankara are a testament to the unpredictable nature of history. While it was a significant setback, it also paved the way for future growth and restructuring. Understanding these historical results provides a deeper insight into the strength and endurance of the Ottoman Empire.