Eastern Question

Definition

The Eastern Question refers to the geopolitical and diplomatic issues surrounding the decline of the Ottoman Empire and its implications for Europe in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This term encompasses the concerns of European powers regarding how to manage the weakening Ottoman Empire, particularly as it faced internal strife and external pressures from nationalist movements and imperial ambitions. It highlights the competing interests of European countries, such as Britain, France, Russia, and Austria-Hungary, as they sought to expand their influence and secure strategic territories in the region.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Eastern Question emerged in the context of the 19th century as European powers began to fear instability in regions previously controlled by the Ottoman Empire.
2. Diplomatic conferences, like the Congress of Berlin in 1878, were held to address the territorial disputes arising from the Eastern Question.
3. Russia sought to expand its territory at the expense of the Ottoman Empire, often justifying its actions with claims of protecting Slavic Christians within Ottoman lands.
4. The decline of the Ottoman Empire led to increased nationalism among various ethnic groups within its borders, further complicating international relations in Europe.
5. The outcomes of negotiations related to the Eastern Question contributed to tensions that eventually played a role in triggering World War I.

Review Questions

• How did European powers' interests shape their approach to resolving issues related to the Eastern Question?
  • European powers had varying interests in addressing the Eastern Question based on their geopolitical ambitions. For instance, Britain aimed to protect its trade routes to India, while Russia sought access to warm water ports and expansion into Ottoman territories. These competing interests often led to complex alliances and conflicts, as nations negotiated terms that would serve their strategic goals while trying to stabilize a declining empire.
• Evaluate how nationalist movements within the Ottoman Empire influenced the dynamics of the Eastern Question during the 19th century.
  • Nationalist movements significantly impacted the Eastern Question by challenging Ottoman authority and altering power dynamics in Southeast Europe. As various ethnic groups sought independence or autonomy, European powers recognized these movements as opportunities to further their interests. This encouraged interventions that often fueled conflict and instability, making it difficult for the Ottomans to maintain control over their diverse territories.
• Assess the long-term implications of how the Eastern Question was handled by European powers on modern Middle Eastern geopolitics.
  • The handling of the Eastern Question has had lasting effects on modern Middle Eastern geopolitics by establishing boundaries and political entities that continue to influence regional conflicts today. The arbitrary redrawing of borders after World War I, largely influenced by decisions made during discussions about the Ottoman Empire's fate, has contributed to ongoing tensions among ethnic and religious groups. Consequently, many issues we see in contemporary Middle Eastern politics can be traced back to this historical struggle over influence and territory during the decline of the Ottoman Empire.

Related terms

Great Game: The political and diplomatic confrontation between the British Empire and the Russian Empire in Central Asia during the 19th century, which was influenced by the Eastern Question.

Balkan Wars: Two conflicts that took place in the early 20th century, which were partly a result of the power vacuum created by the declining Ottoman Empire and affected European geopolitical dynamics.

Sick Man of Europe: A term used to describe the Ottoman Empire during its decline in the 19th century, highlighting its perceived weakness and vulnerability to external intervention.