HIST 206 Lecture Notes - Lecture 5: Pylos, Identitarian Movement, Sublime Porte
Document Summary
Ottoman empire was in europe, but could great powers even make and agreement. At peak, included, north africa, balkans, up to iraq and saudi arabia. Ruled by monarchy and government was known as sublime porte. Defeat of ottoman by austria caused ottoman empire to be in retreat. Difficulty adapting to the advances that allow the european powers to be great. Complexity of government caused constant fight over succession. Demands for greater autonomy from peripheral provinces: ottoman weakness frightens the great powers. The eastern question (what will happen to ottoman empire?) France wanted egypt for trade and to put pressure on british india but also thought it would be a great way to put pressure on the other great powers. Brit was worried russia would take over all of ottoman empire, throwing balance out of whack. British east india company might be in danger. Austria mission to defend europe against ottoman invasion, but concerned about defending their power.
