The Last Days of the Ottoman Empire

The Ottoman Empire's support for Germany and Austria-Hungary in 1914 led to its downfall and the creation of modern Turkey, a complicated story told with lucid authority by Ryan Gingeras.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The Guardian hailed it as a "tour de force of accessible scholarship," while the New Statesman praised its "lucid authority." The Ottoman Empire, spanning from the Adriatic to the Indian Ocean, held a significant place in European history since the Middle Ages. It was a powerful political entity and a religious one, with the Sultan ruling over the Holy Sites and serving as the successor to Mohammed. However, the Empire's tragic decision to align itself with Germany and Austria-Hungary in 1914 led to its downfall, dividing it into a series of European colonies and ultimately giving rise to an independent Saudi Arabia.

In his remarkable new book, Ryan Gingeras delves into the intricate details of how these epochal events unfolded and explores the lasting impact they have had on our world. He sheds light on the question of whether the entire Empire would succumb to the marauding Allied armies or if there was a possibility of preserving something. In a region characterized by deep ethnic and religious divisions, the creation of a cohesive and independent new state came at a significant cost.

The story of modern Turkey is an extraordinary and bitter epic, vividly recounted in this book. Gingeras provides a comprehensive account of the events that shaped the country's history, from its emergence as a regional power in the 19th century to its tumultuous transition into a modern nation-state. He explores the complex political, social, and cultural forces that have shaped Turkey's identity and examines the challenges it has faced in the process of establishing its place in the world.

Gingeras' writing is accessible and engaging, making complex historical narratives accessible to a wide audience. He weaves together a rich tapestry of sources, including primary documents, secondary literature, and personal anecdotes, to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the Ottoman Empire and its legacy. The book is well-researched and meticulously documented, with a clear and concise narrative style that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end.

One of the book's most compelling aspects is its exploration of the Ottoman Empire's complex relationship with Europe. Gingeras shows how the Empire's policies and practices shaped the course of European history, from the Balkan Wars to the First World War. He also highlights the Empire's contributions to art, literature, and science, and how its influence continues to be felt in the modern world.

Another notable aspect of the book is its examination of the Empire's religious and ethnic diversity. Gingeras explores the various religious communities that lived within the Empire, including Islam, Christianity, Judaism, and Buddhism, and how they interacted with each other and the Ottoman government. He also examines the Empire's policies towards non-Muslims, including forced conversions, discrimination, and persecution.

The book's conclusion is thought-provoking and challenging. Gingeras raises important questions about the legacy of the Ottoman Empire and the challenges that Turkey faces in the modern world. He argues that the Empire's legacy is complex and multifaceted, and that it is essential to understand its history in order to navigate the challenges of the present and future. He also suggests that Turkey's role in the region is critical in shaping the future of the Middle East and Europe, and that it must embrace its diversity and promote its values of democracy, human rights, and social justice.

In conclusion, Ryan Gingeras' book "The Ottoman Empire: A History" is a must-read for anyone interested in European history, Middle Eastern politics, and the complex dynamics of identity and nation-building. It is a tour de force of accessible scholarship that provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the Ottoman Empire and its legacy. Through his engaging writing and thorough research, Gingeras has shed light on the complexities of a historical period that continues to shape our world today.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 197 x 128 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141992778