The Ottoman Empire in the Age of Imperialism 1750-1900

The 18th Century Central gov’t lost power to provinces Large landholders increased their independence and diverted imperial funds Mecca and Medina lost to Wahabis Mamluks of Egypt emerged as local military force

Napoleon in Egypt Napoleon invaded Egypt in 1798 Mamluk forces quickly defeated After being cut off by the British Navy, French withdrew in 1801 Muhammad Ali sent by sultan to restore Ottoman control in Egypt

“Battle of the Pyramids” (1798)

Egyptian Reform Muhammad Ali seized power for himself in 1805 Success of Napoleon’s invasion convinced him of the need for reform Examples: -Mamluks eliminated as a class -French practice of conscription introduced -Professional military schools opened These reforms set an example for the Ottomans

Ottoman Reform Sultan Selim III began a modernization program in late 18th c. Janissaries resisted creation of new military units Janissary revolt in Serbia led to effective independence

Ulama (religious scholars) also resisted reforms Rebellion in Istanbul resulted in capture and execution of Selim III Successor Mahmud II embarked on more radical reforms Ottoman loss of Greece justified elimination of janissaries once and for all

Tanzimat reforms made secularization of Ottoman society and gov’t a goal Reforms continued throughout 19th c., but so did foreign interference and revolts by ethnic minorities Nationalist “Young Turks” came to power in 1908