Age and Readiness for High Office
Before ending this chapter, it is important to note that no one was promoted from the Seraglio without special favor […]
G25
The Danger and Glory of the Highest Office
The office of the Prime Vizier was not only the highest position of duty and trust in the empire, but
The Annual Tribute of Moldavia
The following account of Moldavia’s tribute was reported by a man who had worked for many years as an agent
Order Restored Inside the Seraglio
Inside the Seraglio, everything was now brought into good order. After the morning prayers were finished, the Baltagees—a special guard
The Prince’s Support for an Art School
In 1887, the Bulgarian Prince held a conversation with the artist Ivan Angeloff, who had organized an exhibition of his
Land Ownership under the Grand Signior
The Supreme Owner of the Land All lands within the empire remain under the sole authority and gift of the
Rapid Growth of Savings Banks
The savings banks continued to grow quickly during the early years of the twentieth century. In 1905, the number of
Ottoman Views on Christian Morality and Marriage
A Discussion Between Muslims and Christians In this passage, the author describes conversations that he says often took place between
The Clothing Fasting and Ceremonies of the Mevlevi Dervishes
Simple Clothing and Appearance The Mevlevi dervishes were known for their simple and humble clothing. Their shirts were made from
The Tyadl Beliefs About Sin and Punishment
In early Islamic thought, the Tyadl were a sect with strict views about sin, punishment, and divine justice. They opposed