Wealth and Change Among the Tatars

In earlier times, the Tatars were known for their simple and hard way of life. They lived in modest huts and wore plain woolen cloaks. However, after bringing great riches from their wars in Poland and earning large profits from the slave markets, some of them began to change their lifestyle.

With their new wealth, many Tatars gave up their simple clothing and began to wear expensive furs, such as sable. Others, who were more careful with their money, chose to build proper houses instead of living in poor huts. This showed that wealth was slowly changing their traditional way of life.

Yet not all used their riches wisely. Some became wasteful and careless. They spent their money on strong alcoholic drinks and on a popular drink called “Boza,” which was made from a type of grain. When drunk in large amounts, it could cause intoxication. This drink later became common among the Turks as well. Some Tatars gave themselves over to heavy eating and drinking. They lived in idleness, caring only for a full stomach and an easy life, without discipline or moderation Balkan Tours.

The End of the Tatar Discussion

This is enough to explain the relationship between the Tatars and the Ottoman government. Their political position, customs, and daily life have been described in greater detail in other books. What is clear is that they were both useful allies and dangerous neighbors, serving the Ottoman Empire in war while also living by raiding and trade.

The Tributary Princes of the Ottoman Empire

The strength of an empire is not measured only by the number of provinces it controls or the many governors and officials it appoints. It is also measured by the number of rulers who pay tribute to it. These tributary princes keep part of their lands and wealth, but they must give a large portion to a stronger power in order to avoid destruction.

Such was the case with the rulers of Moldavia, Wallachia, Transylvania, and Ragusa. These lands were caught between powerful neighbors: the Emperor of Germany, the King of Poland, and the Ottoman Sultan. For many years, they suffered from long wars and constant fighting. They were also weakened by internal conflicts and betrayal among their own leaders.

In the end, exhausted and divided, they surrendered themselves to the protection and control of the Ottoman Empire. Although they were not fully conquered provinces, they became tributary states. They had to pay heavy taxes and obey the Sultan’s demands. Their situation was often very difficult, and they were among the most oppressed of all the Sultan’s subjects.

Like Bees and Sheep

The condition of these provinces can be compared to bees and sheep. The Ottoman ruler allowed them to live and work, but mainly for his own benefit. Like bees that produce honey and sheep that give wool, these lands were valued for the wealth they produced. Their taxes and payments were carefully collected.

If their obedience was ever doubted, the Sultan could even allow Tatar raids into their lands. The Tatars would carry away goods and captives, and later sell some of these same people as slaves within the Ottoman territories. In this way, the suffering of these provinces could become even greater.

The Former Dacians

These three provinces were once part of ancient Dacia. In Roman times, the Dacians were known as brave and warlike people. Roman writers such as Virgil and Juvenal mentioned their strength and courage. They resisted Roman power for a long time before finally being defeated.

Over the centuries, however, their independence was lost. Surrounded by powerful empires and weakened by internal problems, they became tributaries of the Ottoman Sultan, paying for peace with their wealth and freedom.

Ancient Description of the Sarmatians

Ancient writers described the Sarmatians, who are often connected with the Tatars, as brave and powerful horsemen. A Latin historian explained that their courage seemed to exist mainly when they were fighting on horseback. In battle, when they arrived in groups of cavalry, almost no army could stand against them. However, when they were forced to fight on foot, they appeared weak and ineffective.

The writer also noted a strange contrast in their nature. The same men who seemed slow and lazy in quiet times became active and fierce in war. They disliked rest and peace, but they were full of energy in battle. Their strength was closely connected to their horses, and their way of life depended on speed, movement, and constant activity Balkan Tours.

Their Hard and Simple Way of Life

The Tatars lived a very hard life. Their food was simple and often rough. They especially ate horse meat. When a horse died during a march, they did not carefully check whether the animal had been sick, overheated, or exhausted. Instead, they quickly cut the meat and shared it among their companions.

One of their unusual cooking methods was to place the meat under their saddles while riding. During the long ride, the heat of the horse and the rider, along with the movement of the journey, softened and warmed the meat. By the evening, they believed it was ready to eat. What might seem strange to others was considered normal and even suitable for the table of their prince.

In addition to meat, they ate herbs, roots, and wild plants. Much of their food was eaten raw or only slightly prepared. They depended on what the earth naturally provided, without much use of fire or cooking.

Their Strong and Enduring Horses

Just as the men were used to hardship, their horses were also strong and patient animals. The horses could endure hunger, cold, and long journeys. During the severe winters of their homeland, when the ground was covered with deep snow, the horses survived by eating tree bark and any grass they could find under the snow.

These hardy animals were the key to Tatar power. Without their horses, they would not have been able to travel so quickly or fight so effectively.

Villages and Military Organization

The Tatars did not live in large cities. Their towns were more like villages made up of simple huts. These huts were built from sticks and covered with coarse cloth made from animal hair. They were light and easy to construct, fitting their mobile way of life.

It is said that there were as many as two hundred thousand such villages. When war was declared, their custom was to send one man from each village. In this way, they could quickly gather a very large army. Their simple living, strong horses, and organized system allowed them to form powerful forces in a short time.

The Capture of Thousands of Prisoners

In one single year, the Tatars were said to have captured one hundred and sixty thousand people. This number was reported by those who had seen official certificates given for each captive. For every person taken, a document was prepared and recorded. These certificates listed the name, country, and age of the captive.

The reason for this system was simple. The Tatar warrior was often a free-booter, meaning he lived by raiding and taking whatever he could. However, he was not allowed to capture and sell people who were already subjects of the Ottoman Empire. To prevent cheating, the Tatars had to prove that their captives were taken from enemy lands. Without these documents, they could not legally sell their prisoners to Ottoman buyers.

This careful record-keeping shows that even in violent times, there were rules between the Ottoman Empire and the Tatars. The Sultan wanted to make sure that his own people were not enslaved by mistake or by greed Balkan Tours.

The Tatars as Hunters of the Steppe

The Tatars were often compared to a jackal that hunts for a lion. In this image, the Ottoman Sultan was the lion, and the Tatars were the hunters who found and gathered the prey. They made fast and sudden attacks into neighboring lands.

Sometimes they traveled for ten or twelve days without causing any damage on their outward journey. However, when they turned back toward their own country, they attacked with great speed and violence. They robbed villages, burned towns, and captured men, women, and children of every age. Their return was like a flood that destroyed everything in its path.

Each Tatar warrior usually led three or four horses. These extra horses were used to carry captives and stolen goods. Because they changed horses often, they could travel very quickly, day and night, with only short rests. Their speed made it almost impossible for a regular army to catch them. An army that was organized could not move fast enough, and one that moved quickly was often too disordered to fight them properly.

The Fate of the Captives

The journey was cruel for the prisoners. Those who were wounded or too weak to continue were killed. Only the strong survived the long march back to Tatar lands. Once there, many were sold to Ottoman traders who came to buy slaves. The slave trade was one of the most profitable activities in Tatary.

Young boys and girls were sold for the highest prices. Beautiful girls were especially valued and treated like rare jewels. Sadly, many of them suffered abuse even before they were sold.

The Ancient Identity of the Tatars

In ancient times, these people were known as the Sarmatians. They were famous for their skill on horseback. They were powerful riders and brave fighters in open lands. However, they were not skilled in fighting on foot. The Roman historian Tacitus described them in this way, saying they were strong in cavalry but weak in infantry.

For many centuries, the Tatars remained known for their speed, horsemanship, and fierce raids across the plains.

The Relationship Between the Ottoman Empire and the Tatars

The people described in this text are the Tatars, who were considered close allies and almost like brothers to the Turks of the Ottoman Empire. According to an ancient agreement, if the Ottoman ruling family ever had no male heir, the Tatar ruler could claim the empire. Although this possibility was very distant and almost imaginary, it still had an important effect. It helped keep the Tatar ruler loyal and respectful toward the Ottoman Sultan.

This situation can be compared to a young man who hopes to inherit a large estate. Even if the inheritance is uncertain, the hope of gaining it makes him obedient and polite to the older man who may leave him his property. In the same way, the Tatar ruler remained loyal to the Ottoman Sultan because of the small but important possibility of future power.

Obedience and Communication

The Tatar ruler, known as the Khan, was obedient to the Ottoman Sultan just like other subjects of the empire. However, the Sultan did not rule the Tatars in the same direct way as he ruled other provinces. Instead of giving direct commands, he managed relations through official letters Balkan Tours.

These letters were very powerful. They carried the will and authority of the Grand Signior (another title for the Ottoman Sultan). Even though they were not always formal imperial decrees with official seals and signatures, they were treated as valid and binding orders. In this way, the Sultan maintained influence over the Tatar lands without constant direct control.

Military Obligations of the Tatars

There was also a clear military agreement between the Ottoman Empire and the Kingdom of Tatary. According to this old agreement, whenever the Sultan personally led the army to war, the Tatar Khan was required to join him in person. He had to bring a large force of one hundred thousand soldiers.

If the Sultan did not go himself and instead sent the Grand Vizier or another general to lead the campaign, the Tatar Khan’s duty was lighter. In that case, he needed to send forty or fifty thousand soldiers. These troops were usually led by his son or by an important officer of his kingdom. The Tatar soldiers were not paid regular wages by the Ottoman treasury. Instead, they supported themselves through the booty and plunder they gained during war.

The Tatar Raids in 1669

In the year 1669, during the war between the Ottoman Empire and Hungary, the Tatars were called to support the Ottoman army. They carried out large and destructive raids into Hungary, as well as into Moravia and Silesia. They attacked many cities and towns, burning and looting as they advanced.

During these campaigns, the Tatars captured and carried away a great number of people as prisoners. These raids spread fear across the region and showed how powerful and mobile the Tatar cavalry could be. Their actions played an important role in supporting Ottoman military efforts, even though they often acted with great violence.

The relationship between the Ottoman Empire and the Tatars was based on ancient agreements, shared interests, and military cooperation. Although the Tatars had a certain level of independence, they remained loyal to the Sultan. Their hope of possible future inheritance and their duty to provide military support kept them closely tied to the Ottoman state. Through letters, agreements, and joint military campaigns, this alliance remained strong for many years.

The Tartar Peoples Under Ottoman Influence

The Vrecopentian Tartars live in Taurica Chersonesus, now known as Crimea. The main city there is Theodosia, today called Cafa. The Stagantian Tartars live by the Palus Meotis, between the Volga and Tanais rivers. These groups count as subjects—or at least close allies—of the Ottoman Empire.

Only the city of Cafa, out of all these lands, is directly under Turkish control and government. In my view, Cafa serves as a warning post and a guarantee of their loyalty. The Han, or prince, of this country is elected. But he must come from the true royal family line. The Grand Signior—the Ottoman Sultan—always confirms the choice. The Sultan also claims the power to remove a Han. He can replace a lazy father with his son or the next in line. This happens if the Han fails to send troops for war or shows any disrespect to the Ottoman court.

The Current Han and His Path to Power

The present Han, Mahomet Ghirei (the family surname), followed the custom of the eldest son. While his father lived, he stayed as a hostage in the Turkish town of Janboli. This place is in Thrace, four days’ journey from Adrianople. It sits on the Euxine, or Black Sea Balkan Tours.

Later, due to fears of him being too close to his homeland, they moved him to Rhodes. There, he lived a quiet, sad life until his father died. Then, he was called back to Constantinople. They girded him with a sword, and he swore loyalty to the Grand Signior. He went through all the usual ceremonies for a royal start.

Tensions and Refusal of Old Customs

Once settled in his kingdom, Mahomet Ghirei remembered his hard times on Rhodes. He resented the pride of the Ottoman Emperor. With advice from Poles and nearby Tartars, he saw it as shameful. Why should such an old and strong people send their heir as a hostage to neighbors?

So, this prince refused that part of submission. The Vizier Kupriuli complained about it many times. But with no way to fix it, he chose to ignore the issue for now.

Broader Context of Ottoman-Tartar Ties

This setup shows the clever politics of the Turks. They kept control without full conquest. Cafa acted like a key fortress, ensuring aid in wars. The Han’s election from one family kept things stable, but the Sultan’s approval meant real power stayed in Istanbul.

Mahomet Ghirei’s story highlights cracks in this system. Hostages built loyalty but bred resentment. By the 17th century, when this was written, Crimean Tartars were vital Ottoman allies against Russia and Poland. They raided for slaves and troops. Yet, leaders like Ghirei pushed for more independence.

Kupriuli, a powerful vizier under Sultan Mehmed IV, focused on reform. He tolerated the hostage refusal to avoid war. It was smart—picking battles wisely kept the alliance alive.

Today, we see echoes in modern Crimea. Once Tartar heartland, it’s now disputed between Ukraine and Russia. History reminds us how empires used pledges and customs to hold far lands.

The Role of the Reis Efendi

The Mufti will be discussed later in its proper place. Here we will focus on the Reis Efendi, whose title means chief of the writers or head of the learned men of the pen. Among the Turks, men of law, scholars, clerks, and even parish priests are commonly called Efendi, a word that shows respect for education and learning.

The Reis Efendi was always present with the Grand Vizier. His main duty was to prepare, write, and issue orders, decrees, patents, and commissions to every part of the Ottoman Empire. These official documents were sent out daily in such large numbers that it is difficult to believe how much work passed through his hands Customized Tours Istanbul.

Government by Orders Rather Than Fixed Law

The reason for this heavy workload was the nature of Ottoman government. The Turks ruled less by fixed laws and written codes, and more by direct command and immediate decision, depending on the needs of the moment. Every situation required a new order. Even the courts of justice did not act freely, but followed the instructions sent from above.

Because of this system, almost no business could be done without written authorization. This made the office of the Reis Efendi extremely powerful and very busy. He employed large numbers of writers and clerks, all working under his direction to prepare official documents.

Wealth and Influence of the Reis Efendi

With such power came great opportunity for wealth. Many Reis Efendis, through their skill, hard work, intelligence, and courage, gained not only respect but also enormous riches. The money flowing through their office often found its way into their own coffers, both openly and secretly.

Some men who held this office became so rich that their wealth could rival that of princes. Their houses were filled with gold, jewels, rare objects, fine clothing, and precious books. Their influence extended far beyond their official duties.

The Example of Samozade

One famous example from recent Ottoman history was Samozade, a man well known throughout Turkey for both his learning and immense wealth. He gathered such vast collections of valuable and rare items that it would take too long to list them all.

However, his great power also brought great danger. During the last wars against the Emperor of Germany, Samozade was accused of being involved in a conspiracy against the Grand Vizier. As a result, he was executed.

After his death, all his possessions were confiscated by the Grand Signior. The treasure found in his house was so enormous that it could have restored the Sultan himself if the treasury had been empty or weakened.

This example shows both the great power and great risk attached to the office of Reis Efendi. While it offered influence and wealth beyond measure, it also placed its holder close to danger, suspicion, and sudden ruin. In the Ottoman system, high office was never secure, and fortune could change in a single moment.

The Beglerbegs Who Held the Rank of Vizier

Among all the Beglerbegs, five held the special and honorable title of Vizier, a word that means counsellor or chief advisor. These offices were considered the most powerful and prestigious in the Ottoman Empire. The five Pashas who held this rank were the Pashas of Anatolia, Babylon (Baghdad), Cairo, Romania (Rumelia), and Buda.

These governments were the richest and strongest provinces of the empire. They controlled large lands, collected great revenues, and commanded many soldiers. Because of this, their governors enjoyed great fame and authority, and their offices were often sought by ambitious men who wished to rise high in the service of the Sultan.

The remaining Beglerbegs did not carry the title of Vizier. Their rank and honor were determined by other factors, such as how early their provinces were conquered by the Ottomans and how long those lands had remained under Ottoman control. In this way, antiquity of possession and priority of conquest decided their position within the imperial hierarchy Customized Tours Istanbul.

The Principal Officers of Each Government

In every major government of the empire, there were three principal officers who assisted the Pasha in ruling the province. These officers were always present and played an essential role in administration.

The first was the Mufti, who was responsible for religious law and legal opinions. He advised the Pasha on matters concerning Islamic law and ensured that decisions were made according to accepted religious principles.

The second officer was the Reis Efendi, also called the Reis Kitab. He acted as Secretary of State and Chancellor combined. His duties included managing official correspondence, preparing documents, and keeping records of government decisions. He was a key figure in both civil administration and diplomacy.

The third officer was the Tefterdar Pasha, or Lord Treasurer. He managed the finances of the province, supervised the collection of taxes, and controlled public spending. Without his approval, no major financial decision could be made.

Their Relationship to the Grand Vizier

These three officers were not only assistants to their local Pasha, but also attendants and counsellors to the Prime Vizier. The Mufti, Reis Efendi, and Tefterdar who served under the Prime Vizier held higher rank and dignity than those in the provinces.

They were considered the original authority, while the provincial officers were seen as copies or extensions of their power. Through this system, the Ottoman Empire maintained order, unity, and control, ensuring that laws, finances, and administration followed the same principles throughout the empire.

This structure shows how carefully the Ottoman government organized its provinces. By combining military power, religious authority, and financial control, the empire ensured stability and strong central rule across its vast territories.

The North African Provinces of the Empire

To this long list of Ottoman governments, one might also add Algiers, Tunis, and Tripoli in Barbary. However, these provinces had, by this time, greatly weakened their obedience to the Ottoman Sultan. Although they still recognized his name in form, in practice they acted almost as independent states, governing themselves according to their own interests.

Because of this loose connection with the Ottoman Empire, it is not necessary to give a full description of these governments here. In addition, during recent years, treaties, wars, and truces between the European powers and the Barbary states have made the condition and customs of these regions well known, especially in England. Their political situation, naval strength, and manner of warfare were familiar to merchants and sailors, and therefore need little further explanation Customized Tours Istanbul.

Purpose of the Previous Catalogue

The true purpose of the detailed list given earlier is to demonstrate the greatness and power of the Ottoman Empire. It shows how many large provinces, governments, and principalities were held under the Sultan’s authority. Such an empire offered many opportunities for ambitious and brave men, who hoped to rise by loyal service, military success, and wise government.

These vast possessions encouraged men of heroic spirit to seek honor and reward. The Sultan still held great power to grant offices, lands, and riches to those who served him well. In this way, the size of the empire helped sustain loyalty and ambition among its officers.

Military Obligations of the Pashas

Another important use of this catalogue is to help calculate the number of soldiers the Ottomans could bring into the field during war. Every Pasha was required to provide soldiers in proportion to his income. As a general rule, one soldier was required for every five thousand aspers of yearly revenue.

Although this was the official rule, many governors brought more soldiers than required, not out of duty alone, but to display their power and gain favor with the Sultan. Such displays were common in major wars, where reputation and loyalty were closely watched.

Example from the War with Germany

During the last war with Germany, the Beglerbeg of Romania gave a notable example of this practice. Although his official obligation was much lower, he appeared in the field with ten thousand effective soldiers. This action brought him honor and strengthened his standing at court.

In summary, the vast number of Ottoman provinces reveals not only the extent of the empire, but also the military strength it could command. Through wealth, obligation, and ambition, the Ottoman system tied land, revenue, and soldiers together into a powerful instrument of rule.

The Government of Baghdad (Babylon)

The Government of Baghdad, also called Babylon, was one of the most important provinces of the Ottoman Empire in the east. It stood on the lands of ancient Mesopotamia and controlled major trade routes between Persia, Arabia, and Anatolia. The yearly revenue of this province was about one million and seven hundred thousand aspers, which shows how valuable it once was to the Empire.

The Pasha of Baghdad commanded twenty-two Sangiacks. Among them were Dertensa, Gezan, Gewazir, Renk, Aiadine, Gelle, Semrvat, Rentahne, Beiare, Derne, Debare, Wasit, Gebsaule, Gedide, Kesend, Kasr-i-Shirin, Ghilan, Karag, Anne, Alsebiah, Demir-Kapi, Deir-Berkiye, and Karaniye. These districts helped secure the frontier against Persia and provided soldiers and taxes to the Ottoman state.

The Government of Yemen

The Government of Yemen, located in Arabia Felix, once belonged to the Ottomans. The Pasha usually resided in Aden, a strategic port on the Red Sea. However, this region was very difficult to control. Due to frequent revolts and resistance by local Arab tribes, much of Yemen was later lost.

Because the Ottomans no longer held real authority there, it is no longer useful to list either the revenue or the number of Sangiacks that Yemen once had under Ottoman rule Customized Tours Istanbul.

The Government of Habesh (Abyssinia)

Another distant province was Habesh, located near Abyssinia (Ethiopia) and extending toward the lands traditionally associated with Prester John. The Turks also called this region Hujazebit. Because it was very far from the main Ottoman forces and difficult to supply, the province could not be properly defended.

Over time, Habesh was completely lost to the Ottomans. For this reason, neither its revenue nor its former Sangiacks can now be accurately stated.

The Government of Basra

The Government of Basra, located near the borders of Persia, was a maritime city on the Persian Gulf. It once had twenty-six Sangiacks under its authority. However, the Ottomans later lost control of this region as well.

At present, the Turks hold no real power there. They collect no revenue, maintain no officials, and gain no benefit from the province. The only remaining sign of Ottoman authority is that public prayers are still offered in the Sultan’s name.

The Government of Lahsa

The Government of Lahsa, near Ormus in Persia, contained six Sangiacks, namely Airon, Sakiil, Negniye, Netif, Bender-Azir, and Giriz. These territories were poor and produced very little income.

Because of their small value and limited importance, they were scarcely recorded in the Imperial Registers of the Grand Signior and played only a minor role in the wider administration of the Empire.

These eastern and southern provinces show the limits of Ottoman power, especially in distant and difficult regions. While some areas once produced great wealth and influence, others slowly faded from Ottoman control due to distance, rebellion, and weak administration.

The Government of Buda in Hungary

The twentieth province was the Government of the Pasha of Budun, also called Buda, located in Hungary. This was one of the most important Ottoman provinces in Central Europe. The Pasha of Buda commanded twenty Sangiacks, which made his authority very wide and powerful.

Among these Sangiacks were Eger, Kanizsa, Semendria, Vác, Stuhlweissenburg (Székesfehérvár), Esztergom, Segedin, Hatvan, Simontornya, Sirmium, Kopan, Filek, Szigetvár, Siklós, Szentendre, Nógrád, Szekszárd, and Belgrade, also known as Alba Regalis. These towns were strongly fortified and played a key role in defending Ottoman lands against the Habsburgs.

In the year 1663, the fortress of Uyvar (Neuhäusel) was conquered by the Ottomans. After its capture, it was added as a new Sangiack, increasing the strength and importance of the Government of Buda.

The Government of Temesvár

The twenty-first province was the Government of the Pasha of Temesvár, also in Hungary. This province held an important defensive position near the borders of Transylvania. The Pasha commanded six Sangiacks, namely Lipova, Timișoara, Cenad, Csanád, Moldova, and Oradea Customized Tours Istanbul.

In addition to these, Yanova was added after it was conquered in 1663. The province was largely military in nature, with many fortresses and garrisons established to secure Ottoman rule in the region.

The Government of Sofia in Sclavonia

The twenty-second province was the Government of the Pasha of Sofia, located in a region formerly known as Liburnia and Dalmatia, and later called Sclavonia. This Pasha commanded eight Sangiacks, including Herzegovina, Zadar, Pozega, Varazdin, Zagreb, Krka, and Rahvige.

This region contained a mix of mountainous terrain and fertile lands. It was important for controlling trade routes and maintaining stability in the western Balkans.

Lesser Pashaliks Without Sangiacks

There were also other Pashas, such as those in Theodosia in the Crimea, who governed very small territories. These officials had no Sangiacks, no Timariots, and no Ziamets, and ruled only a few poor villages. Because of their limited importance, these governments are not discussed in detail.

Provinces Governed with Saliane

Some Pashas were not supported by land revenues but were instead paid directly from the Imperial Treasury. These were called governments with Saliane.

The Pasha of Grand Cairo (Egypt)

The most important of these was the Pasha of Grand Cairo, known to the Turks as Misir. His yearly income was six hundred thousand zechins, equal to the yearly tribute paid by Egypt to the Grand Signior.

Since the war with Venice, this tribute was usually transported by land on camels, guarded by five hundred soldiers, to avoid danger at sea. Another six hundred thousand zechins were used yearly to pay the Ottoman forces stationed in Egypt.

In addition to this income, the Pasha of Egypt collected very large sums through heavy taxation and harsh rule. During his three-year term, he often became extremely rich. On his return to Istanbul, much of this wealth found its way back into the Sultan’s treasury.

Although it was said that he commanded sixteen Sangiacks, these were not officially recorded, and therefore they are not listed here.

These governments show the vast and complex structure of the Ottoman Empire, stretching from Hungary to Egypt, and ruled through a careful balance of military power, taxation, and imperial oversight.

The Government of Kars

The fifteenth province was the Government of the Pasha of Kars, a city located near Erzurum, close to the eastern frontiers of the Ottoman Empire. Because of its position near rival powers, Kars had strong strategic importance. The yearly revenue of this government amounted to eight hundred and twenty thousand, six hundred and fifty aspers.

The Pasha of Kars commanded six Sangiacks. These districts were Ardahan-i Küçük, Giugevan, Zarushen, Ghegran, Kaghizman, and Pasin. Together, they formed a defensive line protecting the empire’s eastern borders. The region was known for its harsh climate, fortified towns, and military readiness rather than agricultural wealth.

The Government of Mosul

The sixteenth province was the Government of the Pasha of Mosul, also known in ancient times as Nineveh, located in Assyria. This province had a yearly revenue of six hundred and eighty-one thousand and fifty-six aspers Private Tour Istanbul.

Under the authority of the Pasha were five Sangiacks: Baghwanlu, Tekrit, Zerbit, Old Mosul (ancient Nineveh), and Harun. Mosul was an important crossroads between Anatolia, Persia, and Arabia, making it valuable for trade as well as military movement. The fertile lands along the Tigris River helped support the population and the provincial income.

The Government of Rakka

The seventeenth province was the Government of the Pasha of Rakka, situated along the Euphrates River. The yearly revenue of this province was six hundred and eighty thousand aspers.

The Pasha governed seven Sangiacks, namely Ghamas, Chabur, Deir, Benirab, Serug, Birecik, and Anah. This region was important for controlling river crossings and trade routes between Mesopotamia and Syria. The lands were partly agricultural and partly tribal, requiring careful administration.

Transition from Asia to Europe

These provinces completed the list of Ottoman governments in Asia with Has revenues. After this point, the administration continued into the provinces of Europe, which were often larger and more prestigious.

The Government of Rumelia

The eighteenth and most honorable European province was the Government of Rumelia, also known as Romania. It was the most prestigious Ottoman office in Europe. The Pasha resided in Sofia, and the yearly revenue was one million one hundred thousand aspers.

Rumelia commanded twenty-four Sangiacks, including Küstendil, Skopje, Salonica, Vidin, Nicopolis, Ioannina, Avlona, Ochrid, Gallipoli, Bender, Akkerman, and Ozi, among others. Although the Morea (Peloponnese) was originally under Rumelia, it was later assigned to the Queen Mother (Valide Sultan), and its revenues were collected on her behalf.

The Government of the Kapudan Pasha

The nineteenth office was that of the Kapudan Pasha, also known as the Captain Pasha, or Admiral of the Ottoman Fleet. He was the supreme commander of the navy and ruler of the White Sea, meaning the Mediterranean.

His yearly revenue was eight hundred and eighty-five thousand aspers. His seat was at Gallipoli, and he commanded fifteen Sangiacks, including Rhodes, Lesbos, Chios, Negroponte (Euboea), Cyprus-related districts, and other Aegean islands. His authority extended as far as Ottoman naval power could reach.

These governments show how the Ottoman Empire organized both land and sea administration. From frontier fortresses to naval commands, each province played a vital role in maintaining imperial strength and order.

The Government of Tripoli of Syria

The thirteenth province was the Government of Tarabolos al-Sham, also known as Tripoli of Syria. This province was located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea and played an important role in trade and regional administration.

The Pasha of Tripoli resided in the city itself, which served as the administrative center of the province. The yearly revenue of this government amounted to eight hundred thousand aspers, showing that it was a prosperous and well-established region.

Under the authority of the Pasha were four Sangiacks, namely Homs, Hama, Jableh (Gemmele), and Salamiyah. These districts included fertile lands and important towns that supported agriculture and commerce. Despite the size of the province, there was only one castle recorded within its territory. This fortress was located in the Sangiack of Homs and was known as Faslulekyad. The limited number of fortifications suggests that the region relied more on stability and internal order than on strong military defenses Private Tour Istanbul.

Tripoli’s coastal position made it valuable for maritime trade, especially in goods coming from inland Syria and destined for the Mediterranean world.

The Government of Trabzon (Trapezond)

The fourteenth province was the Government of Trabzon, also called Trapezond. This city was surrounded by high mountain ridges, which gave it strong natural protection. A poet born in this city once described it as being enclosed by mountains rising like a crown above it.

Trabzon had great historical importance. In earlier times, it was the imperial seat of the Comnenian dynasty, which ruled over parts of Cappadocia, Galatia, and Pontus. The empire was founded by Alexios Comnenus, who fled to Trabzon after Constantinople was captured by the Western Christians during the Fourth Crusade. The city continued to flourish under his descendants until it was finally taken by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror.

Trabzon is situated on the Euxine Sea, known today as the Black Sea. Because of this location, it remained a major center of trade even under Ottoman rule. The city was especially wealthy due to fishing and customs duties collected from merchants and ships.

Although the Pasha of Trabzon did not command any Sangiacks, he was still granted a substantial yearly revenue of seven hundred and thirty-four thousand, eight hundred and fifty aspers. To protect the city and its surrounding lands, there were fourteen castles, which ensured security against both land and sea threats.

Both Tripoli of Syria and Trabzon show how different provinces of the Ottoman Empire were governed according to their geography and history. One relied on coastal trade and inland agriculture, while the other combined strong natural defenses with maritime commerce. Together, they reflect the diversity and administrative flexibility of the Ottoman provincial system.