Final answer:
Religion in the Ottoman Empire played a role in legitimacy and power consolidation through the use of religious symbols to legitimize rule.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the Ottoman Empire, religion played a role in legitimacy and power consolidation through the use of religious symbols to legitimize rule.
Religious symbols, such as incorporating the Islamic crescent and star in the Ottoman flag and using the title of caliph, were used by the Ottomans to establish their legitimate rule and strengthen their authority.
These symbols helped to create an image of the empire as the defender and promoter of Islam, which in turn bolstered their power and control over diverse religious communities within their territories.