Osman I, often referred to as Osman Gazi, is credited with founding the Ottoman Empire in the late 13th century. He was a leader of a small Turkish principality in northwestern Anatolia, and his victories against the Byzantines helped establish a foundation for future conquests. Osman’s vision and military prowess set the stage for the expansion of the empire into Europe, Asia, and Africa, which would last for over six centuries. His legacy is significant, as the empire would grow to become a major cultural and political force until its dissolution in the early 20th century.