History
The Great (European) Powers and the Ottoman Empire: the Eastern Question, 1768-1914
An improver-level history course examining the Ottoman Empire’s decline and its impact on European Great Power relations from 1768 to 1914.
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Upcoming classes
1 class
About this course
The course traces the emergence of the Eastern Question and the weakening of the Ottoman Empire through events including the Greek War of Independence, the Crimean War, the Great Eastern Crisis, the Treaty of Berlin, the Young Turk Revolution and the Balkan Wars. It considers how Britain, Russia, France, Austria-Hungary and Germany shaped developments in the Balkans, Mediterranean and Caucasus, and examines the region’s longer-term political consequences. Teaching combines lectures with PowerPoint presentations and large- and small-group discussions.
What you'll learn
- Explain the meaning and historical significance of the Eastern Question.
- Analyse the factors behind the progressive weakening of the Ottoman Empire.
- Examine the role of the Great Powers in Greek independence and the causes and consequences of the Crimean War.
- Discuss the effects of the Treaty of Berlin on the Balkans, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Romania and Bulgaria.
- Assess the long-term consequences of the First and Second Balkan Wars.
Is this course right for you?
The course is intended for improver-level learners who are willing to participate respectfully in class discussion and debate. Some background knowledge of European history would be useful but is not essential, and a good standard of English is required. It is not an exam course.
- Participation includes discussion and debate in both large and small groups.
- Preparation materials are provided for class discussions.
Before you go
- Bring a pen and paper.
- Handouts are provided in each class.
- Books may be recommended, but purchasing them is not required.
- Materials for discussion preparation are available on the course website.
- No additional costs are stated.