Period of decline

The Period of Decline refers to the time when the Ottoman Empire, once a powerful and expansive empire, began to weaken and lose territory, influence, and control. This decline, which started in the late 17th century and continued through the 19th century, was caused by various factors, including military defeats, economic challenges, internal corruption, and rising nationalism among the empire's diverse populations. As European powers grew stronger, the Ottomans struggled to adapt, leading to significant losses and eventually contributing to the empire's disintegration after World War I.