“Administrative efficiency was the major factor in the success of the Ottoman Empire.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the success of the Ottoman Empire was largely a consequence of the empire’s administrative efficiency. Candidates may refer to the hierarchical and bureaucratic system that was employed throughout the empire and the centralization of many aspects of the state system. While other relevant factors, for example the powerful army, the devshirme system, economic prosperity, the unifying impact of Islam and the importance of having a single leader, may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.