How powerful was Roxelane during the reign of Soliman the magnificent?
How powerful was Roxelane during the reign of Soliman the magnificent?
– From Ukrainian origin, and captured young, Roxelane entered the harem of Sultan Soliman around his accession to the throne, in September 1520. Aged around fifteen, her mischievous and cheerful character earned her the nickname “Hürrem” (the joyful). Her first son, Mehmed, was born in 1521, quickly followed by five other children, which gave her a great advantage over her rival Mahidevran, mother of Soliman’s eldest son.
– Alongside her husband, she plays the role of advisor and intervenes in state affairs, particularly in foreign policy. Her influence is such that she is considered one of the most powerful women in the history of the Ottoman Empire.
– Alongside her involvement in politics, Roxelane embarked on a vast policy of building public buildings, from Mecca to Jerusalem: mosques, Koranic schools, a women’s hospital near the slave market, etc. She also established public soup kitchens. , to provide meals to people in need in Jerusalem and
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