The historical context of the Ottoman Empire’s resistance to Western influence and its subsequent vulnerabilities provides a fascinating study of how traditionalism can impact a nation’s development and security. The empire’s reliance on Western arms and instruction for its military forces is a testament to the complexities of international relations during times of conflict, particularly during World War I.
Historical Resistance to the West
The Ottoman Empire, rooted deeply in religious and historical traditions, had consistently demonstrated a strong resistance to Western influence. This resistance was not just a matter of cultural pride but also a strategic attempt to maintain sovereignty and control over their territories. However, this stance against Westernization came with significant consequences. Without developing their own industrial base, the Ottomans found themselves at a disadvantage, especially in terms of military capability. Their armed forces became increasingly dependent on Western technology and expertise. As a result, the survival of the Ottoman Empire through World War I can be largely attributed to the conflicting interests among the Great Powers rather than the empire’s own military strength.
The Crimean War: A Struggle for Power and Prestige
The Crimean War, which occurred from 1854 to 1856, was sparked by a dispute that initially seemed minor: the argument between France and Russia over the Holy Places and the protection of Latin and Orthodox Christians in the Ottoman Empire. However, this conflict quickly escalated, encompassing the broader complexities of the ‘Eastern Question’—a term used to describe the strategic competition and political concerns of the European powers in the declining Ottoman territories.
The Eastern Question Unraveled
The Eastern Question was not merely a religious or cultural dispute but a geopolitical dilemma involving prestige, power, and the balance of influence in Europe. On one hand, it involved a question of prestige between France and Russia. On the other hand, it was a matter of Russian ambitions to exert control over the Turkish government versus British concerns about Russian expansion. These issues inevitably led to heightened Franco-British anxieties, as both powers sought to maintain the balance of power in Europe by ensuring the integrity of the Ottoman Empire.
The Precursor to War
Despite the gravity of the situation, the outbreak of the Crimean War was not immediate. The two years leading up to the hostilities were marked by prolonged maneuvers and diplomatic efforts, indicating a general reluctance among the powers to engage in war. The original dispute over the Holy Places, in itself, did not justify the disruption of the 40 years of peace that Europe had enjoyed nor the breakdown of the Concert of Europe—a framework for resolving international disputes through diplomacy. The hesitancy to start the war in 1854 suggests that the powers involved were aware of the potential consequences and were possibly looking for alternative solutions before resorting to armed conflict.
Questions for UPSC
1. How did the Ottoman Empire’s resistance to Western influence and failure to industrialize contribute to its dependency on Western military support?
2. In what ways did the Crimean War alter the balance of power in Europe and affect the relationships among the Great Powers?
3. What role did the Eastern Question play in shaping the foreign policies of European nations towards the Ottoman Empire, and how did it lead to the Crimean War?
