Week 5

I found the weaknesses and problems within the Ottoman government that were discussed in class this week interesting. It seemed somewhat strange that the Ottomans, who seem to have good administrators thus far, would not realize the importance of the navies, and allowing other nations to handle their trade in return for submission. It just seems like a strange oversight for a nation that has been able to control vast territories and manage those people would trust trade, or not see the Portuguese’s’ power over them as a threat. The change in social status and role of the Janissaries is also interesting (sorry for being repetitive), as they started to become elites and ignore the rules the empire has for them, like not being able to marry. This would definitely seem like a problem, as it threatens the social structure and requires change because they no longer suit the purposes they were intended for. The increase of power of any military institution certainly seems problematic and can affect the government’s control.
The growth of European power and advantage with the numerous losses and unequal treaties is unfortunate, it reminds me of any other regions’ treaties with Europe. Treaties between European countries, especially Britain, and China in the 19th century seem similar to the Turks’ situation. The formerly strong country also lost power and was forced to allow more European interference in China through set tariffs on imports into the country. Though we discussed how the Ottomans were not as weak at this time as some historians portray them, this does seem like a negative indication for the future of the Empire concerning its complete autonomy.