British-French Rivalry and Ottoman Empire in Eastern Mediterranean in 19th Century

East Mediterranean is an important and strategic region at the intersection of Asia, Africa and Europe. Many states and societies have been inhabiting in Eastern Mediterranean. Ottoman Empire was the most significant country in this area in 19th century and before. There was peace and comfort in Eastern Mediterranean with Ottoman rule which the most prominant power in the region. But political tussle started up because of European (especially British and French) power’s interest on the area. At the same time, the recession of Ottoman Empire accelerated this course. British and French were two of the most important actors in Europe in 19th century. These two powers were interested in Asia and Africa because of Indian Road and colonialism. Especially, Eastern Mediterranean was at the key point here. Hereinafter, these two powers battled on Cyprus, Egypt, and all East Mediterranean coasts and this struggle effected Ottoman Empire and its policies. The British-French rivalry which affected Ottoman Empire focused on particular aspects. One of the most important rivalry areas was the concern about being the superior on seas. Being superior on seas which was considered as one of the most important measure of being a great government became a subject of rivalry between two governments. Another rivalry subject was to be able to be influential on Ottoman Empire’s lands. The land around Middle east and East Mediterranean coasts which was increasing in value and where the Ottoman government was in difficulty about management became more valuable. The rivalry was not limited at this region but also became a subject in the agenda and discussion of Europe. While Ottoman Empire was in endeavor of survive which was the most important problem of it, the ownership rivalry of British and French even other Europan Powers on East Mediterranean is very striking. Although Ottoman Empire was very weak in military and financial aspects, it continued to compete. The British-French rivalry on East Mediterranean which stucked between the rivalry of great states among themselves and on Ottoman Empire and survival politics of Ottoman Empire was investigated in this study.

Keywords

East Mediterranean, 19th Century, Ottoman Empire, England, France, Colonialism