Sultan Mahmud II

Sultan Mahmud II was an Ottoman ruler from 1808 to 1839 known for modernizing the empire. He implemented reforms to strengthen the government, army, and bureaucracy, including ending the Janissary corps—a powerful and often disruptive military faction. His reforms aimed to centralize authority and modernize Ottoman society, helping to preserve the empire amidst European advances. Despite resistance from traditional factions, Mahmud II’s efforts set the foundation for subsequent modernization and reform efforts in the Ottoman state.