Alaeddin Pasha

Who was Alaeddin Pasha?

Alaeddin Bey, or Alaeddin Paşa was the brother of Orhan I Ghazi, who succeeded their father, Osman I Ghazi, in the leadership of the Ottoman Empire. It is not certain whether Alaeddin or Orhan was the elder son. Some historians claim that Alaeddin was Osman’s second son, but others argue that there is a good chance that he was the oldest. Nevertheless, Orhan Ghazi ruled the country and became the first Ottoman ruler to take the title of Sultan. According to tradition and Ottoman history presented by historian Idris-I Bidlisi, Alaeddin was more passive than his energetic, warrior brother, and thus stayed at home instead of fighting to expand the newly forming Ottoman Empire. He received training in the management of state affairs. There is a good chance that Orhan was selected to inherit leadership of the Empire because of his skills as a warrior.

In contrast to later Ottoman history, when succession became an issue that could lead to civil war, Alaeddin accepted his position graciously and there was no feud between the brothers. Alaeddin quickly submitted to his brother’s rule, offering his allegiance and thus gaining the respect of the government and of the people. In fact, it seems that Alaeddin enjoyed a relaxed lifestyle and was more concerned with the fact that their father left Orhan and him no fortune along with the Empire than the issue of succession. Ties between these two brothers, unlike so many other Ottoman princes, remained amiable for the remainder of their lives. Because of his training in affairs of the state, Orhan sought Alaeddin’s advice, which he received willingly. In return, Alaeddin requested the village of Fodrā and his request was granted.