ORHAN GHAZI
Orhan Ghazi is the person who turned a small country from his father into a big state, and who took steps toward being an emirate to a kingdom.
Orhan Ghazi was born in 1288 and became the emir in his 36. His elder brother Alaeddin Pasha was more engaged in science, and Orhan was engaged in state affairs and wars. Both brothers, joining forces, tried to establish Ottoman State on sound foundations. Their harmonious works set example for their successors.
Orhan invaded Bursa and made it his capital city. He had decided to establish a real state and expand its borders by organization. He is one of the most hero, clear and skillful people of Ottoman generation.
Orhan Ghazi established the first army; imposed law and order and printed the first money. He occupied Semendire, Aydos, İzmit, Hereke, İznik, Mudurnu, Göynük, Gemlik, Karasi, Bergama, Mihaliççik and Kirmasti after Bursa.
His son Suleyman Pasha passed to Rumelia. He took Gelibolu, Bolayır, Hayrabolu, Tekirdağ, İpsala and their vicinity. The first relation with foreign states started in Orhan Ghazi times. Byzantium Emperor Kantakuzinos, abstaining from the strong state of Orhan, wanted to marry his daughter Princess Theodora to him and live in peace.
The emirate, advancing on the sound foundations by Orhan, became a worldwide state in time. Orhan Ghazi loved and protected scientists, he spread justice.
Orhan Ghazi, who died in 1359, ruled for 33 years. His twenty years elapsed in peace and comfort.