Final answer:
The Ottoman Empire's successful expansion in Europe and the Middle East can be attributed to their use of revenues from transoceanic trade to build a powerful army, their adoption of the latest gunpowder and artillery technology, and their exploitation of Muslim desire to avenge the crusades.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Ottoman Empire's successful expansion in Europe and the Middle East from 1450 to 1600 can be attributed to a combination of several factors:
- The Ottomans' use of revenues from transoceanic trade to build a powerful army: The Ottomans were able to generate significant wealth from trade routes, particularly in the Mediterranean, which they used to build and maintain a formidable military force.
- The Ottomans' adoption of the latest gunpowder and artillery technology: The Ottoman armies were early adopters of muskets and cannons, which gave them a military advantage over their opponents.
- The Ottomans' exploitation of Muslim desire to avenge the crusades: The Ottoman Empire presented itself as a champion of Islam and used the desire for revenge against the crusaders as a rallying point, gaining support and expanding their influence.