Was the Ottoman Empire an autocracy?

Answer 1

Yes. Originally all power radiated from the Sultan, who effectively was an absolute ruler. Eventually, power in the Ottoman Empire was contested between the Sultan and the Elite Military or Janissary Forces. However, the Ottoman Empire never had anything along the lines of republicanism or parliamentary democracy.

Answer 2

Yes, the Ottoman Empire was an autocracy. The sultan held absolute power and ruled as both the political and religious head of the empire. While some religious and administrative officials had limited authority, ultimate decision-making power rested with the sultan.