The Ottoman Empire’s Legacy in Today's Middle East

posted on: Oct 28, 2025

By: Amir Kobeissi / Arab America Contributing Writer

The Ottoman Empire, which was once one of the strongest forces this world has ever seen, continues to play a key role in the Middle East we see today. Even though the empire itself collapsed centuries ago, the empire’s influence and teachings can still be seen in politics and government systems today. Arab America’s contributing writer Amir Kobeissi shares how the Ottoman Empire’s legacy remains evident in the modern Middle East, and how it continues to influence religion and culture through power and structure. 

The Rise of The Empire

The Ottoman Empire first rose to power in 1299 led by Osman I. Him and his followers expanded their state into a worldwide powerhouse. After years and years of battle and conquering, the empire controlled most of North Africa, Eastern Europe, and Western Asia. The capital of the empire, Istanbul became one of the centers of Islamic world, while also directly connecting it to Europe as well.

The empire was well known for the system it followed and its religious diversity that consisted of Christians, Jews, and Muslims. This was something that was very uncommon during this time period, as coexistence was something that seemed impossible especially in such a holy area. Millet, the system that they used allowed for religious communities to govern themselves. This resulted in centuries of peace in the state, but was very difficult in replicating around other areas in the region, specifically the Middle East.

Government and Culture

The Ottomans were able to create a bureaucracy that connected directly with society. Regions were administered according to Islamic law, but this would also include ancient customs that have been existent for years in governance. Different cultures blended together with one another such as Persians, Arabs, and Turks, and this blend shaped the Middle East we know today. Art and Architecture under the Ottoman Empire was also ahead of its time, and serve huge significance to millions of Muslims across the world today. The shared heritage in these mosques and cultures continue to influence other nations across the Middle East and beyond.

The Fall of The Empire

In 1922, the Ottoman state collapsed completely and was replaced by modern day Turkey. This new change seemed promising at first, but caused many problems for the wider Arab world. European powers split the region up and moved different religious and ethnic groups into modern Middle Eastern countries like Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq. Struggling to rule and manage increasing diversity, European powers deemed it was best to create borders and complete seperation.

Modern Day Turkey

In recent times, Turkey has had some sort of shift within society and government, and embraced its Ottoman past and lineage. The government has also developed new policies, notably Ottomanism, and they have used this to strengthen relations with Arab and Middle Eastern countries in the region. This move served to be somewhat controversial, as while it embraced heritage and culture, it created issues of intervention and conflict. Turkey’s connection to its Ottoman past has helped keep the empire together even centuries later, and define Middle Eastern relations and influence today.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy of the Ottoman Empire lives on in Middle Eastern politics, culture, religion, and more. Its ability to blend Islamic tradition and culture shaped how neighboring countries rule and govern themselves today. Even over a century after the collapse of the empire, its presence remains evident through language, debate, and power. The Ottoman Empire may be defeated militarily, but its ideology and practices continue to influence modern Middle Eastern actions today.

Want more articles like this? Sign up for our e-newsletter!

Check our blog here!