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American-Ottoman Relations and Democratic Fervor in the Age of Revolutions

Jaden Cox

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Published in The Greek Fire: American Ottoman Relations And Democratic Fervor In The Age Of Revolutions (The United States In The World)

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The Age of Revolutions, which spanned the late 18th and early 19th centuries, was a period of profound political and social upheaval. Across the globe, people rose up to challenge traditional forms of government and demand greater freedom and equality. The American Revolution (1775-1783) and the French Revolution (1789-1799) were two of the most notable examples of this revolutionary fervor.

The Greek Fire: American-Ottoman Relations and Democratic Fervor in the Age of Revolutions (The United States in the World)

by Maureen Connors Santelli

5 out of 5

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The United States and the Ottoman Empire, two powerful nations on opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean, were not immune to the influence of these revolutionary ideas. In fact, the relationship between the two countries was deeply shaped by the democratic fervor of the age.

The Barbary Wars

One of the most significant episodes in American-Ottoman relations during this period was the Barbary Wars (1801-1805 and 1815). The Barbary pirates, who were based in North Africa and operated under the authority of the Ottoman Empire, had been attacking American merchant ships for decades. In response, the United States sent a naval squadron to the Mediterranean Sea to protect its interests.

The Barbary Wars were a major test of the young American republic. They demonstrated the country's willingness to use military force to defend its citizens and its interests abroad. The wars also helped to shape American foreign policy in the years that followed.

The Ottoman Empire and the American Revolution

The Ottoman Empire was one of the first foreign powers to recognize the United States. In 1786, the two countries signed a treaty of friendship and commerce. The treaty was a significant diplomatic victory for the United States and helped to establish its legitimacy in the eyes of the world.

The Ottoman Empire was also sympathetic to the American Revolution. The Ottoman government allowed American ships to use its ports and provided financial assistance to the Continental Army. In addition, the Ottoman Empire refused to recognize the British claim to sovereignty over the United States.

Democratic Fervor and the Ottoman Empire

The democratic fervor of the Age of Revolutions had a significant impact on the Ottoman Empire. Inspired by the American and French revolutions, Ottoman intellectuals began to call for reforms and a more representative government. In 1808, a group of Ottoman officers staged a coup and deposed the sultan, Selim III. The new sultan, Mahmud II, was more sympathetic to the demands of the reformers and instituted a number of reforms, including the establishment of a parliament.

The Ottoman Empire's efforts to modernize and reform its government were met with mixed success. While some reforms were successful, others failed to take root. Nevertheless, the democratic fervor of the Age of Revolutions left a lasting impact on the Ottoman Empire and helped to shape its future.

The relationship between the United States and the Ottoman Empire during the Age of Revolutions was complex and ever-changing. It was a relationship marked by both conflict and cooperation. The Barbary Wars demonstrated the United States' willingness to use military force to defend its interests, while the Ottoman Empire's recognition of the United States and its support for the American Revolution showed its sympathy for the cause of liberty. The democratic fervor of the age also had a significant impact on both countries, inspiring reforms and helping to shape their future.

The Greek Fire: American-Ottoman Relations and Democratic Fervor in the Age of Revolutions (The United States in the World)

by Maureen Connors Santelli

5 out of 5