The Sick Man: The Last Century of the Ottoman Empire

By the late 19th century, the Ottoman Empire began to be referred to as the "Sick Man of Europe." This term represented the empire’s economic, military, and political weaknesses. We will have refined information about the significant events, reforms, and ultimate collapse that the Ottoman Empire experienced during its last century.

Political Weakening and National Movements

Throughout the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire witnessed the independence struggles of many ethnic groups and nations. Countries like Greece (1821-1832), Serbia (1804-1835), and Bulgaria (1908) declared their independence by rebelling against Ottoman rule. This process weakened the empire’s political structure and encouraged nationalist movements. 

Reform Efforts

In an attempt to strengthen the empire, the Ottoman government implemented various reforms. With the Tanzimat Edict (1839) and the Reform Edict (1856), the goals were modernization and the strengthening of central authority. Changes were made in education, the rule of law, and the economic structure. However, these reforms often remained superficial and unfortunately did not achieve significant transformation. 

Economic Crises

By the late 19th century, the Ottoman Empire faced economic difficulties. The agricultural sector was not sufficiently affected by the industrial revolution, leading to economic decline. The state turned to external borrowing, which endangered the empire’s independence. The bankruptcy in 1875 almost openly declared the collapse of the empire's financial structure.  

Balkan Wars and World War I

The Balkan Wars (1912-1913) led to the loss of Ottoman territories in the Balkans. These wars made it evident to everyone that the empire was clearly on the brink of collapse; the end seemed near. During World War I (1914-1918), the Ottomans were part of the Central Powers and were defeated after the war. This defeat marked the effective end of the empire, even if it remained nominally alive. 

Proclamation of the Republic

The Ottoman Empire officially came to an end in 1922. On October 29, 1923, the Republic of Turkey was proclaimed under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This new state aimed to shape the legacy left by the Ottoman Empire into a modern nation-state.