fbpx

Mount Kaf, as the Saying Goes: Relations between the Ottoman State and Caucasi – Mustafa Aydın



START

1 December 2018 – 14:30

Mount Kaf, as the Saying Goes: Relations between the Ottoman State and Caucasi

Caucasia, located at a significant crossroads from East to West and from North to South –that
is, strategically located– has drawn the attention of many peoples and states (e.g. Scythians,
Huns, Romans, Arabs, Khazars, Moguls), and have fallen under their hegemony.
Following its growth after foundation, the Ottoman State, too, struggled in military, political
and economic aspects, first with the Safavid Empire in the 15th century, then, with Russia as
it grew strong and regarded the area for expansion towards the end of the 18th century.
The military struggle in Caucasia ended with Turkmencay Treaty Russia signed with Iran in
1828 and Edirne Treaty signed with the Ottoman State in 1829. Both these states had to
disclaim their Caucasian involvement in favor of Russia.
Nevertheless, this did not mean that Caucasia would be under the control and hegemony of
Russia. The Caucasian people almost identified themselves with Mount Kaf, which is known
for being impassable and making themselves legendary with their struggle for freedom.
Although the aid they hoped for sometimes did not arrive due to the political developments of
the time, they did not abandon their trust in and affection for the Ottoman State.

Mustafa Aydın

İstanbul Üniversitesi