The Fall of Constantinople

Abstract

Abstract The diplomatic manoeuvrings prompted by the fall of Constantinople to the Ottoman Turks in 1453 are often placed in the context of the long narrative of the expansion of Islam and the preaching of Christian crusades in response. However, they also serve as an instructive example of early modern international relations in a complicated and diverse environment. This chapter will consider three salient factors that influenced and often dictated the western European response to the disaster. First the sharp tension that existed between religious allegiance and economic and political interests. Secondly, the remarkable ability of the Roman Church to promote international dialogue and publicity in a world that was in other respects fragmented and localized. Finally, the role of local issues and national agendas in moulding and sometimes derailing any concerted Christian response.