The Ottoman Assumption of the Islamic Caliphate

1517 CE · Kahire → İstanbul · religious

After the conquest of Egypt the last Abbasid caliph was in Cairo; according to historical tradition the caliphate was symbolically transferred to Selim I.

Although scholarly debate continues, the outcome is clear: until the nineteenth century the Ottoman sultans presented themselves as the caliphs of the Islamic world. This title transformed Ottoman political legitimacy.

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Frequently asked questions

What was The Ottoman Assumption of the Islamic Caliphate?
After the conquest of Egypt the last Abbasid caliph was in Cairo; according to historical tradition the caliphate was symbolically transferred to Selim I.
When did The Ottoman Assumption of the Islamic Caliphate happen?
1517 CE
Where did The Ottoman Assumption of the Islamic Caliphate take place?
Kahire → İstanbul