The Eastern Question refers to the complex set of diplomatic, political, and military issues that arose from the decline of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This period was marked by the struggle for control over the territories of the Ottoman Empire, particularly in the Balkans, the Caucasus, and the Middle East, as well as the strategic waterways like the Dardanelles and the Bosphorus.
Historical Context
The Eastern Question became prominent with the decline of the Ottoman Empire, which began to be evident after the Treaty of Karlowitz in 1699, where the Ottomans lost significant territories in Europe. Here are key historical events:
- 1774 Treaty of Küçük Kaynarca: Russia gained the right to protect Orthodox Christians in the Ottoman Empire, setting a precedent for foreign intervention.
- 1821-1832 Greek War of Independence: The first major successful independence movement against Ottoman rule, supported by European powers.
- 1853-1856 Crimean War: A conflict where Britain, France, and Sardinia supported the Ottoman Empire against Russia, who sought to expand its influence in the Balkans and the Black Sea region.
- 1875-1878 Eastern Crisis: This period saw revolts in Herzegovina and Bulgaria, leading to the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, which resulted in significant territorial losses for the Ottomans.
- 1878 Congress of Berlin: European powers redrew the map of the Balkans, reducing Ottoman influence further.
Major Powers Involved
- Russia: Sought control over the Straits Question and influence in the Balkans and Caucasus.
- Britain: Concerned with maintaining the balance of power, access to trade routes, and protecting its interests in India.
- France: Initially supportive of Ottoman reforms, later involved in protecting Christian minorities.
- Austria-Hungary: Interested in expanding its influence in the Balkans.
- Germany: Became increasingly involved through its Drang nach Osten policy and alliance with the Ottoman Empire.
Outcomes and Consequences
The Eastern Question significantly shaped the geopolitical landscape:
- It led to the creation of new nation-states in the Balkans.
- It contributed to the tensions that eventually erupted in World War I.
- The Ottoman Empire's loss of territory and prestige paved the way for the emergence of modern Turkey after World War I.
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