The Eastern Question refers to the complex diplomatic and political issues surrounding the decline of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It primarily focused on the future of the Balkans, the Caucasus, and the Middle East, as well as the strategic interests of the major European powers in the region. The Eastern Question was a major factor in shaping European diplomacy and alliances during this period, leading to conflicts such as the Crimean War and the Balkan Wars.
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Google Gemini AI
more than 1 week ago
The Eastern Question refers to a political and diplomatic issue that emerged in the 19th century concerning the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the growing interest of European powers in the region.
Key Aspects of the Eastern Question:
- Ottoman Empire's Weakening: The Ottoman Empire, once a powerful force, was experiencing a period of decline and internal instability. - European Powers' Ambition: European powers such as Russia, Britain, France, and Austria-Hungary saw the Ottoman Empire as a potential target for territorial expansion or influence. - Control of the Straits: The control of the Bosporus and Dardanelles straits, which connected the Black Sea to the Mediterranean, was a major strategic issue. Russia sought access to these straits for its navy, while Britain aimed to maintain control of them to protect its Mediterranean interests. - Christian Minorities: The treatment of Christian minorities within the Ottoman Empire, particularly in the Balkan region, became a humanitarian concern for European powers. - Nationalism: The rise of nationalism in the Balkan provinces led to increasing demands for independence from Ottoman rule.
Key Crises and Events:
- Crimean War (1853-1856): A conflict between Russia and the Ottoman Empire, supported by Britain, France, and Austria-Hungary. - Serbian-Ottoman Wars (1876-1878): Led to Serbia's independence and the creation of new Balkan states. - Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878): Resulted in the Treaty of San Stefano, which gave Russian influence in the Balkans. - Berlin Congress (1878): Revised the Treaty of San Stefano and established the independence of Montenegro, Serbia, and Romania.
Resolution:
The Eastern Question was partially resolved through a series of treaties and international conferences. However, it remained a lingering issue until the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I.