Challenges Faced by Immigrants in the Ottoman Empire (1856-1914)

This study examines the negative reactions and problems faced by migrants as a result of the intense migration movements that took place in the final period of the Ottoman Empire, based on archival documents, periodicals, and literature reviews. Migration waves triggered by conflicts such as the Crimean War, the 93 War (Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878), and the Balkan Wars led to various difficulties, particularly in terms of housing, transportation, loss of livelihood, climate differences, language incompatibility, and relations between the local population and the state. Although efforts were made to establish new villages and towns for the migrants, the unforeseen number of migrants and economic inadequacies chronicled the housing problem. Inadequacies in land, sea, and rail transportation led to the spread of epidemics and high death tolls. Migrants who were forced to leave their livelihoods behind were pushed into an economically fragile structure, and climate incompatibility increased health problems, especially in hot and swampy areas. Migrants who did not speak Turkish faced communication barriers, which negatively affected social integration. The local population's jealousy and reactions, land disputes, security issues, and some migrants' involvement in illegal activities have increased social tensions. The state implemented various measures to alleviate these problems, including resettlement plans, the appointment of interpreters, security measures, and efforts to combat epidemics; however, the negligence of local authorities and bureaucratic delays have deepened the suffering of migrants. The study reveals that the problems faced by migrants have critical consequences not only in humanitarian terms but also in terms of social order and state governance. In this context, the Ottoman experience offers a historical perspective on migration management and social integration policies

Bureaucracy · Immigration · Livelihood · Population · Spanish Civil War · Turkish · Ottoman and Turkish Studies · Ottoman Empire History and Society · Turkey's Politics and Society