Which Ottoman grand vizier is known for leading the Köprülü reforms in the 17th century?

Which Ottoman grand vizier is known for leading the Köprülü reforms in the 17th century? The answer is Köprülü Mehmed Pasha.

Köprülü Mehmed Pasha became grand vizier in September 1656, during a period of military setbacks, financial strain, political factionalism, and a Venetian blockade of the Dardanelles. Valide Sultan Turhan Hatice selected him and granted unusually strong security of office, allowing him to act with considerable independence.

His administration restored central authority, improved the empire’s finances, broke the Venetian blockade, and suppressed rebellions. These measures helped revive Ottoman power, although they also involved harsh purges and massacres of officials and soldiers regarded as disloyal.

The term “Köprülü reforms” can refer broadly to the work of the Köprülü family rather than to one person alone. Mehmed Pasha’s son, Fazıl Ahmed Pasha, succeeded him in 1661 and continued the family’s influence. Even so, Köprülü Mehmed Pasha is the canonical answer because his appointment began the Köprülü era.