Suleiman the Magnificent

Full Name: Suleiman I
Profession: Ottoman Sultan

Nationality:

Biography: As the only son of Sultan Selim I, Suleiman succeeded his father to the throne in 1520.

He embarked on a series of military campaigns that expanded and consolidated his Empire, his reign is now regarded as the peak of Ottoman influence.

His first campaigns were against the Christian kingdoms of eastern Europe. He conquered Belgrade in 1521, Rhodes in 1522-3, and defeated Hungarian forces at the decisive Battle of Mohács in 1526, establishing Ottoman superiority in the region for 150 years.

Suleiman also undertook three major campaigns in Persia, defeating Iraq and occupying Baghdad. Suleiman's naval forces became a major power in the Mediterranean, establishing their influence after the battle of Preveza in 1538 under Ottoman commander Barbarossa.

In the East Suleiman became known as the "Lawgiver" for his efforts to reform the Ottoman law system. Although dominated by military campaigns Suleiman's rule was also a rich period for art and architecture. Under his reign his chief architect Sinan oversaw the construction of the famous Süleymaniye and Selimiye mosques.

Born: November 6, 1494
Birthplace: Trabzon, Ottoman Empire
Star Sign: Scorpio

Died: September 5, 1566 (aged 71)