Mustafa II (Ottoman Turkish: مصطفى ثانى, romanized: *Muṣṭafā-yi sānī*), born on 6 February 1664, served as the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1695 until his dethronement on 29 December 1703. His reign, spanning eight years, was a pivotal period marked by significant military setbacks and a reorientation of imperial strategy during the waning years of the Great Turkish War.

As the son of Sultan Mehmed IV, Mustafa II ascended to the throne at a challenging juncture in Ottoman history. The Empire was embroiled in the long-standing conflict against the Holy League, a coalition of European powers including the Habsburg Monarchy, Poland-Lithuania, Venice, and Russia. Upon his accession, Mustafa II displayed a personal resolve to reverse the tide of Ottoman military decline, a stark contrast to some of his predecessors. He personally led several campaigns, aiming to reinvigorate the army and reclaim lost territories. Notably, he led his forces in campaigns in Hungary, achieving initial tactical successes, which temporarily boosted morale within the Ottoman ranks and fueled hopes for a resurgence.

However, these early victories proved to be fleeting. The most devastating defeat of his reign, and indeed one of the most significant in Ottoman history, occurred at the Battle of Zenta on 11 September 1697. Here, the Ottoman army, under Mustafa II's command, suffered a catastrophic loss to the Habsburg forces led by Prince Eugene of Savoy. This decisive defeat effectively shattered Ottoman ambitions in Central Europe and paved the way for peace negotiations.

The inevitable consequence of the military reversals was the signing of the Treaty of Karlowitz in 1699. This landmark agreement formally concluded the Great Turkish War and marked a profound turning point for the Ottoman Empire. Under the terms of the treaty, the Ottomans were compelled to cede vast territories, including most of Hungary and Transylvania to the Habsburgs, Podolia to Poland-Lithuania, and parts of Dalmatia and the Morea (Peloponnese) to Venice. The Treaty of Karlowitz represented the first major territorial concessions made by the Ottoman Empire to European powers and is widely considered by historians as the beginning of the Empire's prolonged decline in global power and influence, signifying a shift from an expansionist power to one increasingly focused on defense and preservation.

Following the treaty, Mustafa II attempted to consolidate internal power and reform the state apparatus. He controversially moved the imperial court from Istanbul to Edirne, a decision that caused considerable resentment among the Janissaries and the populace of the capital, who perceived it as an abandonment of Istanbul and a neglect of their interests. This move, coupled with perceived fiscal mismanagement and the general disillusionment following the Karlowitz losses, culminated in the 'Edirne Incident' (or the 'Edirne Event') of 1703. This revolt, primarily led by discontented Janissaries and Istanbul artisans, demanded the Sultan's return to the capital and eventually escalated into a full-scale rebellion. Facing an overwhelming opposition and unwilling to shed Muslim blood, Mustafa II was compelled to abdicate on 22 August 1703, in favor of his younger brother, Ahmed III. He passed away shortly thereafter on 29 December 1703.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sultan Mustafa II

When was Mustafa II Sultan of the Ottoman Empire?

Mustafa II reigned as the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1695 to 1703.

What was the most significant event during Mustafa II's reign?

The most significant event was the signing of the Treaty of Karlowitz in 1699, which concluded the Great Turkish War and resulted in substantial territorial losses for the Ottoman Empire, marking a turning point in its history.

How did Mustafa II's reign end?

His reign ended with his dethronement during the 'Edirne Incident' (or Edirne Event) of 1703, a revolt led by Janissaries and other factions who were discontent with his policies, particularly the relocation of the imperial court to Edirne and the outcomes of the war.

Who succeeded Mustafa II as Sultan?

Mustafa II was succeeded by his younger brother, Ahmed III.