The Papacy’s Initial Response to the Ottoman Threat and Its Consequences (1453–1464)

Abstract

In 1453, the world witnessed the fall of the medieval Christian Empire’s largest capital, Constantinople, at the hands of the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II (1444–1446/1451–1481). Some scholars have argued that this event encouraged crusades against the Ottomans throughout Europe. Consequently, this research debates the previous studies by discussing both the primary objectives of the papacy and Christian states after the fall of Constantinople and the presence of Muslims in Western Europe. It also considers the Catholic Church’s actions during its attempts to incite Christian countries to wage war against the Ottoman Empire. Lastly, the study analyses various primary sources, including papal sources, and provides deeper insights into various papal responses to Ottoman threats, comparing them with simultaneous, more enthusiastic support for the Iberian Reconquista.