Ottoman Empire Before Abdul Hamid II
What was the general condition of the Ottoman Empire before Abdul Hamid II came to power?
It was weak and declining.
Where was Abdul Hamid II born?
Istanbul.
How did Abdul Hamid II become Sultan?
After his brother Murad was removed from power.
What political system was introduced during the First Constitutional Period?
A constitution and a parliament.
Which country went to war with the Ottoman Empire during Abdul Hamid II’s rule?
Russia.
Name one major problem the Ottoman Empire faced before Abdul Hamid II.
Loss of land / heavy debts / European interference.
Who was Abdul Hamid II’s father?
Sultan Abdul Majid.
Which mosque did Abdul Hamid II visit during his accession ceremony?
Eyüp Sultan Mosque.
Who were the reformers Abdul Hamid II cooperated with initially?
The Young Ottomans.
Name one uprising that occurred during this period.
Bosnia and Herzegovina / Bulgaria / Serbia.
Which region did the Ottoman Empire lose significant territory in before Abdul Hamid II?
The Balkans.
Who raised Abdul Hamid II after his mother died?
His stepmother, Perestu Kadın.
What symbol of legitimacy did Abdul Hamid II receive when becoming Sultan?
The Sword of Osman.
What was the main goal of introducing the constitution?
Reduce European pressure and modernize the empire.
What treaty caused major territorial losses for the Ottoman Empire after the war?
Treaty of San Stefano.
Why did European countries pressure the Ottoman Empire to reform?
To interfere in its affairs and protect their interests.
Name two characteristics of Abdul Hamid II as a child.
Physically fragile, often ill, received special care, strong education. or learned the Piano
Which two groups had different expectations of Abdul Hamid II at the start of his rule?
Liberals and conservatives.
What was the reaction of European powers to the new constitution?
They rejected it.
Name two territories that became independent after the treaty.
Romania, Serbia, Montenegro.
How did the empire’s weakness affect the priorities of Ottoman sultans during this period?
They focused on survival rather than expansion
How did Abdul Hamid II’s childhood experiences shape his later rule?
They made him cautious, suspicious, and fearful of instability.
Why did Abdul Hamid II appear reformist at first but remain cautious?
Because of political chaos, empty treasuries, and mixed expectations.
Why did Europe prefer older reforms like the Tanzimat instead of a parliament?
They believed real representation of the people was unnecessary.
Why did Abdul Hamid II believe constitutional rule failed to protect the empire?
Because land losses continued despite reforms.