History of American Chamber of Commerce for The Levant (1911-1914)

The relationship between the United States and the Ottoman Empire began on May 7, 1830, with the signing of a commercial agreement between the two states. This agreement was followed by subsequent treaties over the years, and the amicable relationship between the two nations encouraged American merchants to engage with the Ottoman Empire. However, despite these agreements, trade did not reach the anticipated levels. Several factors contributed to this stagnation, including the geographic distance of the Ottoman Empire, the absence of a direct steam ferry line, and deficiencies in the banking system. Additionally, U.S. policies played a significant role in this limited trade activity. The adoption of the ‘Open Door Policy’ in 1899 marked a turning point, as it prompted the U.S. to become more active in many regions, including the Levant. As part of this new approach, the U.S. upgraded its mission in Istanbul to an embassy in 1906. Subsequently, in 1911, it established the ‘American Chamber of Commerce for the Levant’ to promote trade in the region. This article examines the establishment of the chamber- an institution that played a pivotal role in the global expansion of American commerce-in the Ottoman Empire and its efforts to foster trade between the two nations

Ancient history · Archaeology · Geography · Global Maritime and Colonial Histories · History · Islamic Studies and History · Law, logistics, and international trade