Final answer:
The Ottoman Empire's early expansion was greatly influenced by its strategic geographic location, military strength and innovations, effective strategies, and a drive for wealth, with its capital at the crossroads of Europe and Asia playing a key role.
Step-by-step explanation:
The early expansion of the Ottoman Empire was primarily driven by its strategic location, military strength, strategy, and the quest for wealth.
As successors to the Byzantine Empire, the Ottomans benefitted from the advantageous position of Istanbul, which lay at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, bolstering trade and economic vitality. Additionally, technological advancements in military warfare, such as firearms and artillery, provided an edge over their adversaries.
Furthermore, leaders like Sultan Mehmed II saw conquest as a way to bring wealth and people into the empire, maintaining economic prosperity.
Thus, while all provided factors contributed, the empire's rapid growth was the result of a combination of strategic geographical positioning and military innovation, demonstrating the importance of location and strength, alongside effective strategies and the incorporation of new resources and populations.