Mahmud II

Mahmud II was the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1808 to 1839. He is best known for initiating significant reforms to modernize the empire, which had been experiencing decline. He reduced the power of the Janissaries, an elite military group, and restructured the army. Mahmud II also implemented administrative reforms, promoted education, and improved infrastructure. His reign marked a shift towards modernization and westernization, laying the groundwork for future reforms. Despite facing resistance, he is often credited with beginning the Tanzimat era, a period of intense reform aimed at revitalizing the Ottoman state.