Pargali Ibrahim Pasha

Pargalı Ibrahim Pasha was an Ottoman statesman who rose from slavery to become the first Grand Vizier of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. He was born to Orthodox Christian parents in Parga, a town in Epirus, then part of the Republic of Venice. He was captured by the Ottoman governor of Bosnia, Iskender Pasha, and taken into his service. He became friends with Suleiman, who was then a prince, and accompanied him to various campaigns and missions. He proved his loyalty and ability in many occasions, and was appointed as the Grand Vizier in 1523, after Suleiman ascended to the throne. He was also given the title of serasker, or supreme commander of the army, and married Suleiman's sister, Hatice Sultan. He was instrumental in expanding the Ottoman Empire, especially in Egypt and Hungary. He reformed the administration and taxation system in Egypt, and negotiated the Treaty of Nagyvárad with Hungary, which made it a tributary state of the Ottomans. He also participated in the conquest of Baghdad, Rhodes, Belgrade, and Mohács. He was a patron of arts and culture, and built many mosques, schools, bridges, and fountains. He was fluent in several languages, including Turkish, Arabic, Persian, Greek, Slavic, and Italian. He was known for his generosity, courage, wisdom, and diplomacy. He was also a close friend and confidant of Suleiman, who trusted him with many affairs of the state and the household. However, his power and influence aroused jealousy and suspicion among some of the Ottoman elites, who plotted against him. He was accused of treason, corruption, and arrogance, and was executed by Suleiman's order in 1536. His death shocked and saddened many people, especially Suleiman, who later regretted his decision. He was buried in Canfeda Tekkesi Haziresi, a small Islamic monastery in Istanbul. He is regarded as one of the most prominent and influential figures in Ottoman history.