The Problem of a Small Nation Ruling a Large Empire
It is difficult to understand how a small group of people, even if they are brave and wise, can control
Reflection on the Blessings of a Free Country
Before ending the previous chapter, the writer pauses to reflect with gratitude on the happiness and freedom of his own
Fear and Uncertainty in Government
In the Ottoman Empire, it sometimes happened that a man was appointed to govern a province, even though the ruler
Suspicion Is Enough for Destruction
In the Ottoman Empire, if a powerful man was suspected of planning rebellion or causing unrest, suspicion alone could lead
Cesare Borgia and the Rule of Romagna
When Cesare Borgia wanted to secure control over the region of Romagna, which he had recently conquered, he used a
Control Through Oppression
The Ottoman ruler governed many different nations and peoples who had been conquered over time. These groups spoke different languages
Offices Given for Merit in Earlier Times
In earlier times of the Ottoman Empire, especially during its strongest and most successful periods, offices were often given as
Greater Security for Trade and Property
The special rule requiring written proof brought great safety to trade and to the estates of merchants. Before this protection,
False Witness and Religious Bias
Another serious problem in the Ottoman courts was the ease with which some people gave false witness. It was said
Greed and Sudden Wealth
When we consider all these circumstances together, we can better understand the condition of the Ottoman government. Many of the