In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Upon reflecting on the life of Uthman I, we can observe certain qualities that defined his character, particularly his role as a military and political leader. When Christian rulers from Bursa, Madanus, Kutta, and Kastela sought support from the Byzantines in 700 AH / 1301 CE to launch a Crusade against him, Uthman took charge and personally led his troops into battle. The Christians answered the call and vowed to eradicate the emerging Muslim state, but Uthman’s courage and valour prevailed as he defeated the Crusader armies. His actions served as a shining example of bravery among the Ottomans. After assuming leadership of his people, Uthman decided to align himself with Sultan Alaa Ad-Din in the fight against the Christians. Together, they successfully conquered several impregnable cities and fortified strongholds. As a result, he was granted the title of Emir by the Seljuk Sultan. He was also permitted to mint coins in the Sultan’s name, and prayers were offered for him during Friday sermons in the regions under his authority. Witnessing Uthman’s unwavering commitment to the faith, the inhabitants of the lands near the Uthmanee Emirate pledged their support to him, helping to establish a strong Islamic state that served as a formidable barrier against those who opposed Islam and its followers. Uthmaan’s character displayed this attribute when he embarked on the conquest of fortresses and territories. In 707 AH, he successfully conquered the fortresses of Kattah and Aqsar, among others. Furthermore, in 712 AH, he achieved victory in capturing the fortress of Kabuh and others. His conquests reached their pinnacle with the capture of the city of Prusa, which proved to be an arduous task. Uthmaan faced one of his greatest challenges during this conquest, engaging in a fierce struggle against the commander of its garrison, Akrinus. This struggle persisted for several years until Akrinus ultimately surrendered and handed over the city to Uthman.

[Ad-Dawla Al-Uthmaaniyyah Awaamil An-Nuhood Wa Asbaat As-Suqoot. 6/45-46]