I noticed interesting statistics about the history of the Ottoman Empire. It turns out, its influence was simply colossal.

In Europe, the empire controlled vast territories. Turkey was under its rule for 623 years, Bulgaria for 515 years, and North Macedonia for 542 years. Greece was divided between different periods of rule—somewhere between 370-520 years depending on the region. Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia, and Herzegovina were also under control for over 400 years each.

In the Caucasus, the situation was interesting. Georgia, for example, experienced several periods of rule with interruptions. Dagestan and Kabardia within the Russian Empire were under Ottoman influence for about 355 years.

In Central Asia and the Middle East, the picture is even more impressive. Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Israel, Palestine, Lebanon—all these countries were under Ottoman rule for approximately over 400 years. Saudi Arabia (Hejaz, Najd, Al-Ahsa)—393 years. Kuwait—361-375 years.

In Africa, the influence was also significant. Egypt, Libya, Algeria, Tunisia, Sudan—each of these countries experienced Ottoman rule for over 300 years. Even in East Africa, traces of this influence can be found.

When you look at this map of the Ottoman Empire's spread, you realize the scale of one of the greatest empires in history. Its influence spanned three continents and hundreds of millions of people.