Introduction
The Ottoman Empire was one of the largest and most powerful empires in history. It was founded in the late 13th century and at its peak spanned three continents, covering much of south-eastern Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. The Ottoman Empire was known for its military might, advanced system of governance, and rich cultural heritage. While the heritage of the Ottoman Empire has had a significant impact on the evolution of modern Turkey, Western influence has also played an important role in the country’s development.
Political System
The influence of the Ottoman Empire can be seen in Turkey’s political system in a number of ways. First, the administrative and legal structures of modern Turkey are based on the institutions and practices that were developed during the Ottoman period. This includes the central role of the Turkish parliament, which was modeled after the Ottoman legislative council, as well as the Turkish legal system, which is based on the Ottoman system of law (A Tale of Two Turkeys 2:40). The ruling party in Turkey, the Justice and Development Party, has its roots in Islamic political thought and has sought to revive some of the Ottoman Empire’s cultural and religious traditions. This has included efforts to promote the use of the Ottoman Turkish language and to restore and preserve Ottoman-era buildings and monuments.
Society
The impact and heritage of the Ottoman Empire is also evident in many aspects. The Ottoman legacy includes a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on Islamic traditions and values. Many of the country’s customs and practices, such as the traditional Turkish greeting and the importance of hospitality, have their roots in the Ottoman period (Turkey: The Quest for Identity, 23). In addition, this heritage continues to shape the way in which Turkey views its place in the world. Many Turks see themselves as the heirs to the Ottoman legacy of military and political power (The Passenger: Turkey, 126). This legacy has also been a source of national pride for many Turks, who see the Ottoman Empire as a symbol of the country’s past greatness and a source of inspiration for its future development.
Culture
Cultural life in Turkey also keeps the evidence of the country’s imperial past. Many of the country’s most famous buildings and landmarks, such as the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul and the Blue Mosque, were built during the Ottoman period and are a testament to the empire’s architectural and artistic achievements. Many of the country’s most celebrated writers and artists were inspired by the empire’s culture and history. In addition, the Ottoman legacy continues to influence the way in which Turkish culture is expressed and celebrated (Many Turks Believe Erdogan Will Bring About New Ottoman Empire 3:12). The empire’s rich musical traditions can still be heard in modern Turkish music, and many of the country’s traditional dance and folk performances draw on Ottoman-era influences (The Passenger: Turkey, 93). The Ottoman legacy can also be seen in the country’s cuisine, which features many dishes and ingredients that were popular during the empire’s heyday.
Western Influence
While Western influence has certainly played a role in shaping modern Turkey, it is just one of many factors that have contributed to the country’s development. In the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Turkey underwent a series of significant political and cultural changes as it emerged from centuries of Ottoman rule and began to modernize. During this period, the country was heavily influenced by Western ideas and institutions, as it sought to modernize and become more integrated with the broader international community.
The late 1800s and early 1900s can be seen as a period of westernization in Turkey. During this period, the country adopted aspects of Western culture such as a secular legal system, a constitutional government, and a public education system (Philosophy of Kemalism 5:35). Prior to this time, Turkey operated under a legal system based on Islamic law, which governed all aspects of life, including family law, criminal law, and commercial law (Mustafa Akyol on Turkey 4:17). However, as part of the process of westernization, Turkey adopted a secular legal system that was based on the Napoleonic code. This legal system, which is still in place today, separates religion and state and is based on principles of individual rights and the rule of law.
The concept of a constitutional government, in which the powers of the state are limited by a written constitution, is another Western idea that was introduced to Turkey as part of westernization. Turkey’s current constitution is heavily influenced by Western examples, particularly those of European countries. The constitution includes provisions on individual rights and freedoms, the separation of powers, and the role of government, which are all concepts rooted in Western political thought (Power Struggle Around the Scarf 3:45). Finally, Turkey’s membership in international organizations such as the Council of Europe and the European Union, which are both based on Western political and legal principles, has also contributed to the country’s constitutional government (Turkey’s Economy: How It Started; How It’s Going 2:32). These organizations have helped to shape Turkey’s political and legal systems, and have encouraged the country to adopt Western norms and standards in these areas.
Conclusion
It can be concluded that all these changes were largely driven by a desire to modernize and become more competitive on the global stage. In addition, the development was influenced both by the country’s Ottoman legacy and the Western ideas and practices, as Turkey sought to modernize its economy and integrate with the global economic system. Today, the legacy of the Ottoman Empire and the process of westernization can still be seen in modern Turkey. The country continues to navigate its place in the world and balance its cultural heritage with its aspirations for the future.