Kapitel 55: Chapter 52: The Pillaging Paths of the Cossacks
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In the magnificent Divan-ı Hümayun hall of Topkapı Palace, the Sultan's viziers and senior statesmen gathered early in the morning. Osman sat on his throne, carefully observing the faces of the pashas. The discussions proceeded in a generally calm tone until the sound of hurried footsteps from outside the palace abruptly changed the atmosphere of the meeting.
A messenger, dusty and sweating, was ushered into the hall on his knees. His appearance clearly indicated the urgency of the news he bore. Bowing deeply, he caught his breath and began to speak in a trembling voice:
"My Sovereign, I bring critical news! The Cossacks, allied with Poland, have raided Ottoman lands. They have pillaged our villages and terrified our people."
The room fell into sudden silence. The viziers exchanged glances as Osman straightened on his throne. His voice was steady and decisive:
"How much damage have they caused? Is our people safe?"
"The extent of the damage is not yet fully assessed, my Sultan. However, the Cossacks have also begun to threaten our trade routes."
Osman paused briefly, then locked eyes with the messenger. "Immediately request detailed information from our border units. If necessary, dispatch additional messengers. Now go and rest."
As the messenger departed, Osman turned his attention to the viziers. "Pashas, what do you think of this matter? The floor is yours."
Öküz Kara Mehmed Pasha, stroking his beard, was the first to speak. "My Sultan, this is not merely a raid. The Cossacks could not muster such audacity without Poland's covert support. If we do not respond promptly, such incursions will continue."
Pertev Pasha opposed this opinion. "You are correct, Mehmed Pasha, but such a response could escalate into open war. We should first address Poland diplomatically, warning them about the Cossacks' actions. If they fail to restrain their vassals, then we can act."
Osman remained silent for a while, pondering the words of both pashas. Then he turned to the Şeyhülislam. "In such a situation, retaliation is our right. But what do you say, Şeyhülislam Efendi?"
The Şeyhülislam clasped his hands as if in prayer and began to speak: "My Sultan, it is our duty to protect the oppressed. However, avoiding unnecessary bloodshed is equally important. If this matter can be resolved through diplomacy, that path would be more virtuous."
After listening to the suggestions, Osman took a deep breath. "Both opinions have merit. However, we will not leave this matter solely to diplomacy. We will support the Crimean Tatars and use them as a force against Poland. This will send a direct message and demonstrate our strength at the borders. Simultaneously, a letter will be sent to the Polish king, demanding that these raids cease immediately. Otherwise, they will face a larger campaign."
When Mehmed Pasha heard Osman's decision, he bowed his head. "My Sultan, this is both a bold and strategic decision. We will begin preparations at once."
Pertev Pasha also spoke, admiring Osman's approach. "This balance between diplomacy and strength will show our enemies the seriousness of the Ottoman Empire. Your orders will be carried out immediately."
Following the Divan meeting, Osman summoned Öküz Kara Mehmed Pasha for a private audience. The pasha, bearing the resolve and wisdom of years of service, appeared before the Sultan with a composed demeanor. Osman harbored deep respect for his loyalty and service. The pasha bowed respectfully:
"My Sultan, I have come as you commanded."
Osman gestured for Mehmed Pasha to sit. "Mehmed Pasha, I need to discuss an important matter with you. You have rendered great services to our state for many years. However, I believe the time has come for you to rest."
Mehmed Pasha listened calmly to Osman's words. He paused briefly before responding with reverence:
"My Sultan, it has been an honor to serve our state. If you deem it necessary for me to step down, I accept your command wholeheartedly. However, I want you to know that I will always remain at your service."
Osman was moved by the pasha's humility. "Mehmed Pasha, history may have unjustly tarnished your name, but in my eyes, your place remains exalted. Retirement does not mean withdrawal; it means continuing to support us with your wisdom and experience."
Mehmed Pasha smiled faintly. "My Sultan, your words are the greatest reward I could receive. Who do you consider suitable to succeed me?"
After a brief pause, Osman replied: "I desire a young and dynamic leader as our new Grand Vizier. For this reason, I have chosen Kemankeş Kara Mustafa Pasha. His courage and command over state affairs will guide us in these challenging times."
Mehmed Pasha nodded in agreement. "Kara Mustafa Pasha is an excellent choice, my Sultan. I am confident he will always stand by your side."
Osman was grateful for the pasha's support. "Mehmed Pasha, I want you to continue serving as an advisor to us. Your contributions to our state will never be forgotten."
The pasha bowed deeply. "My Sultan, I will always be at your service. May Allah preserve our state."
After this conversation, Öküz Kara Mehmed Pasha left the palace with honor. Osman believed this change would bring a new dynamism to the state.
Who Was Kemankeş Kara Mustafa Pasha, and Why Did Osman Choose Him?
Kemankeş Kara Mustafa Pasha is recognized as one of the most remarkable Grand Viziers of the Ottoman Empire. Born around 1592, Mustafa Pasha possessed a strong military background. From a young age, he distinguished himself with his discipline and skill, particularly excelling in archery, earning him the title "Kemankeş" (master archer). The epithet "Kara" symbolized his courage and resolute character.
His rise within the Ottoman court was attributed to his intelligence, loyalty, and mastery of state affairs. Kara Mustafa Pasha is renowned for his pursuit of order and reform in Ottoman governance. During the reign of Sultan Murad IV, he was appointed Grand Vizier in 1638, demonstrating exceptional leadership during the Revan and Baghdad campaigns. His contributions were instrumental in securing the empire's eastern borders.
Kara Mustafa Pasha was not only a soldier but also a visionary statesman. Known for his sense of justice, he prioritized policies aimed at improving public welfare. Throughout his tenure, he sought to reduce extravagance and streamline state institutions. Tragically, due to the political machinations of his rivals, he was executed in 1644.
Historians remember Kemankeş Kara Mustafa Pasha as a dedicated, courageous, and reformist figure whose leadership left a lasting legacy during one of the Ottoman Empire's most challenging periods.
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