Ertugrul Gazi

Ertuğrul was a 13th-century Turkish chieftain or bey who is known as the father of Osman I, the founder of the Ottoman Empire. He is often described as the first person in Turkish history to move away from the nomadic lifestyle and settle down in Söğüt, which became the capital of the future Ottoman Empire. As such, he is often credited with events that eventually led to the founding of the Ottoman Empire. While the Ottoman tradition describes him as the son of Suleyman Shah, the leader of the Kayı tribe of the Oghuz Turks, who fled from western Central Asia to Anatolia to escape the Mongol conquests, some historians believe that he was the son of Gündüz Alp who was granted dominion over the town of Söğüt by the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum for his service in the fight against the Byzantine Empire. Some sources also believe that his wife, Halime Hatun, was a Seljuk princess, the daughter of a Seljuk ruler. He lived up to the age of 93, according to 15th century Ottoman historian Neşri, and spent the final years of his life quietly with his tribe. He was buried in Söğüt, where his tomb and a mosque dedicated to him still stand today. He had four sons with Halime Hatun, the most famous of whom was Osman I, who succeeded him as the leader of the Kayı tribe and established the Ottoman Empire. Ertuğrul is one of the most revered figures in Turkish history and culture, and his life and legacy have inspired many works of art, literature, and media. He is the main protagonist of the popular Turkish TV series Resurrection: Ertuğrul, which depicts his struggles and achievements in the 13th century. He is also honored with statues, coins, and stamps, and his name is given to many places and institutions in Turkey.