How did the Ottoman Empire influence European politics during the wars?

The Ottoman Empire, which existed from the 14th century to the early 20th century, had a significant impact on European politics during the wars. The empire was strategically located between Europe and Asia, and as a result, it played a major role in the conflicts that took place between these two continents.

During the wars, the Ottoman Empire formed alliances with various European powers, and this greatly influenced European politics. For example, during the Thirty Years' War, the Ottomans supported France against the Habsburgs, which weakened the Habsburgs and allowed France to emerge as a dominant power in Europe. Similarly, during the War of the Spanish Succession, the Ottomans supported the French claimant to the Spanish throne, which again weakened the Habsburgs and helped to establish the Bourbon dynasty in Spain.

In addition to forming alliances, the Ottomans also posed a direct military threat to Europe. The empire's expansionist policies led to numerous wars with European powers, including the Russo-Turkish War and the Austro-Turkish War. These conflicts had a significant impact on European politics, as they led to changes in the balance of power and helped to shape the geopolitical landscape of Europe.