Real History of Turgut Alp

Real History of Turgut Alp

Biography of Turgut Bey

Introduction

There are many individuals in history who preferred to stay out of the spotlight, silently contributing to significant endeavors. These unsung heroes have played crucial roles in various fields, including the establishment and expansion of empires, often overshadowed by more famous figures. Today, we delve into the life of one such hero, whose contributions to empire-building are undeniable. The formation of an empire would be unimaginable without him, as he devoted his entire fortune to the cause. Let’s explore the brief biography of this remarkable individual—who he was, and what his legacy is.

Identity, Birth, and Ancestry

Turgut Bay, known as Turgut Alp in some historical accounts, was born around 1200 AD according to Turkish history. His father was Kaynur Alp, and after his father’s death, Turgut was adopted by Suleiman Shah. He had a son named Elias Bey, and there is even a mosque in Turkey named after his son.

Fellow Soldier of Ertuğrul and the First Gazi of the Empire

Turgut Alp was a warrior of immense skill, especially known for his prowess with an axe. He was strong, brave, and a loyal companion to Ertuğrul Gazi. He fought alongside Ertuğrul, always standing by his side and following his every command.

Turgut Alp also fought in battles with Ertuğrul’s son, Osman Gazi, and played a significant role in the conquest of several fortresses. His support extended to Osman Gazi’s son, Orhan Gazi, and he is remembered as the first Gazi (warrior) of the Ottoman Empire. Turgut Alp was one of the greatest warriors in Turkish history, a close confidant and blood brother to Ertuğrul Gazi. Though little is known about his personal life, his legendary bravery is immortalized in folk tales and early Ottoman and Byzantine chronicles. At the age of 35, he risked his life to save Ertuğrul from the Mongol forces in a heroic battlefield rescue.

Marital Life

Marriage was an important tradition in Islam, and Turgut Alp fulfilled this Sunnah. However, his marital life is subject to debate among historians. It is believed that he was married twice. His first wife was Aykiz Hatun, the beautiful daughter of Ustad Delidemir, the blacksmith of the Kayi tribe. Aykiz was martyred in battle, after which Turgut Alp married Aslihan Hatun, the sister of Aliyar Bey. He continued to serve as Bey (Chief) under the command of Ertuğrul Gazi.

Heroism During Osman Gazi’s Reign

After the death of Ertuğrul Gazi, Turgut Alp became a close confidant and chief supporter of Osman Gazi. He stood by Osman until his death at the age of 67, playing a crucial role in Osman’s conquests. According to Ottoman chronicles, Turgut Alp was present during the second conquest of Karacahisar Castle in 1291 AD, where he made significant contributions. He participated in all of Osman’s victories, wielding an axe that weighed 1.65 kilograms. This historic weapon, forged in the city of Bursa, is still preserved as a relic in the National Museum of Istanbul, Turkey.

Governor of İnegöl

After the conquest of İnegöl in 1299 AD, Osman Gazi appointed Turgut Alp as the governor of the region. İnegöl, which consisted of several villages, was entrusted to Turgut Alp, who ruled there for 36 years. His leadership brought peace and prosperity to the region, which was eventually named Turgut-ili (Land of Turgut) in his honor. Turgut Alp also played a pivotal role in the conquest of Atranos Castle (Orhaneli) in 1325, contributing to the successful siege of Bursa.

Role During Orhan Gazi’s Reign

Turgut Alp continued to serve during the reign of Orhan Gazi, participating in the Bursa campaign in 1325. Alongside Mihal Gazi, he took part in the conquest of Atranos Castle, which was instrumental in the capture of Bursa in 1326. Despite his advanced age, Turgut Alp remained a steadfast supporter of Orhan Gazi, serving as his most trusted advisor and following him in every conquest.

Year of Death

Turgut Alp, the great hero of the Ottoman Empire, passed away in 1328. He was laid to rest in the İnegöl Cemetery in Bursa at the remarkable age of 128 years.