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Suleyman the Magnificent's bid for world domination

Christopher de Bellaigue discusses the extraordinary life of one of the most powerful – and feared – men of the 16th century

Published: April 21, 2025 at 7:30 AM

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Henry VIII lorded it over England. Francis I dominated France. Charles V was the main man in central Europe. Yet arguably none was as powerful as Ottoman sultan Suleyman the Magnificent – a true heavyweight of the 16th century. Speaking to Spencer Mizen, author Christopher de Bellaigue discusses a man who had designs on becoming 'world emperor', only to be hamstrung by bloody infighting among his own family.

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Christopher de Bellaigue is the author of The Golden Throne: The Curse of a King (Bodley Head, 2025)

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Authors

Spencer MizenSenior production editor

Spencer is senior production editor of HistoryExtra magazine

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