The historical figure credited with founding the Ottoman Empire is Osman I, who ruled from 1299 to 1326. Osman declared independence from the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum and established a small principality in northwestern Anatolia. His leadership laid the foundation for what would become a vast empire, marked by military conquests and diplomatic alliances. The dynasty he founded, the Osmanoglu, went on to rule the empire for over six centuries, expanding its territories across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Osman I’s legacy is significant, as he represents both the emergence of the Ottoman state and its transformation into a powerful imperial entity.