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Who was Köse Mihal? | The Real History of Mikhael Kosses | The First Byzantine to join the Ottomans

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    During the early era of the Ottoman Empire, there were many Byzantine lords and commanders that joined the ranks of the Ottomans, even converting to Islam. The first (significant one) among them being  Köse Mihal, also known as Mikhael Kosses. In this video we will go over his life, achievements, exploits, and the legacy he left behind.           Mikhael Kosses, an ethnic Greek, is believed to have been from the famous Palaiologos Dynasty, which ruled the Byzantine Empire from the years 1259 until its downfall in 1453CE, the longest a dynasty ever ruled the empire. Köse Mihal was the Byzantine governor of the Harmankaya Castle. The Harmankaya Castle was in the Uludag mountains in the foothills of Bilecik, Turkey. After taking part in a battle against Osman Ghazi, alongside the Byzantine governor of Eskisehir, he was captured and taken prisoner. However, he was forgiven by Osman for his valor and heroism.       In the following years, a trap would be set up for Osman by the neighbor
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How did Dundar Bey die?

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      One of the most debated topics of early Ottoman History: Dundar Bey's death. Many great historians believe that Dundar Bey was not killed by his nephew, Osman I, while other notable sources claim he was. Some say he was killed by Osman's bow, while others argue he died of a natural cause. As a result, a question is frequently asked: how did Dundar Bey die in actual history?     In order to come to a conclusion as to how  Dundar died, we must look at his situation & the circumstances surrounding him. Dundar was among the 300 families to accompany Ertugrul Ghazi to the Byzantine border, despite the fact that roughly 1,000 families remained with Gundogdu & Sungurtekin. Though he had made several errors & mistakes, Dundar had remained loyal to his brother, Ertugrul Ghazi, and only dreamt of serving his nation. However, after the death of Ertugrul Ghazi, Dundar found a sense of ambition. He had been with Ertugrul Ghazi, ever since the beginning, yet, he was not dee
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Who was Aydogdu bey?

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    During the early era of the Ottoman Empire, there were many notable warriors & officials, whose lives were sacrificed for the creation of their state.  Unfortunately, not much information remained from the astounding, early Ottoman heroes. Though, among them came a man whose bravery & valor was impressive to the point, that history remembered him during an era in which people were forgotten. He was the grandson of Ertugrul Ghazi, nephew of Osman Ghazi, & eldest son of Gunduz Alp: Aydogdu Bey.     Aydogdu Bey's date of birth was estimated to be between 1284 and 1287,  near the Byzantine border. He was personally trained by his uncle, Osman, and would grow up to become a very commendable warrior. From a very young age, Aydogdu would take part in many wars & battles along with Osman Ghazi. Osman would in turn, become so fond of his nephew, Aydogdu, that he would even send him as an ambassador to the Seljuq Sultan. The fact that such a significant duty was given to
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Who was Gunduz Bey?

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    Grandson of Sulayman Shah, eldest son of Ertugrul  Ghazi, loyal brother & supporter of Osman Ghazi, who was Gunduz Alp? Gunduz Alp was among the early Ghazis of the Ottoman Empire, whom had devoted their lives to the establishment of a great state. Moreover, the feats & exploits of Gunduz Alp proved him to be one the fiercest warriors of the Ottomans. Nevertheless, what has history said about the Ottoman hero, Gunduz Alp?     Gunduz Alp was born in Sogut, in the year 1229. He grew up in the household of Ertugrul Ghazi, as his eldest son; and had the honor & privilege of accompanying him on many  campaigns and expeditions. Gunduz proved to be a real branch of support to his father, becoming his close confidant & companion. This sense of responsibly & ambition truly gave Gunduz Alp experience & intellect at a young age.        Gunduz Bey was said to have been in his mid-twenties in the year 1258, when his youngest brother, Osman I was born. Due to the old ag
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