The Decline of the Ottoman Hegemony and the Diplomatic Strategies of the Republic of Turkey: A Message to the Contemporary World

Abstract

This research investigates what historical events and the causes that are responsible for the Ottoman’s decline. This paper outlines the path to how Turkey was able to conduct its foreign policy successfully after establishing the Republic of Turkey from the Ottoman Empire, more precisely, on the eve of World War II, and how it signifies present-day International Relations. Since methodology is the key to examining and bringing out new perceptions in any field, a methodology for it was formulated at the inception of the study. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches are used in this research. The quantitative method provides significant data collection and evaluation results. A descriptive qualitative approach to the study was utilized, which consisted of planned activities to explain and disclose informant interpretations through description. The collection of data relies on literary research that uses corresponding publications, scholarly articles, and other materials as secondary documentation. Research findings showed that European capitalism, uncontrolled population growth, religious polarization, corrupt legal system, excessive national debt, political and economic corruption of rulers, and the weakness of reforms were the prime reasons for the decline of the Ottoman Empire. One of the successes of Turkey’s foreign policy was the development of relations with Britain and France shortly after the establishment of the Republic. In addition, it was able to bring dynamics to its economy by establishing alliances with the Soviet Union and Germany and building commercial relations. However, when World War II started, its foreign policy faced a massive challenge. Due to the bitter experience of participating in the First World War, Turkey adopted a policy of neutrality with great discretion. But it had to pay a lot for that. Turkey pursued its foreign policy by countering German and Soviet threats and balancing Anglo-French pressure. By trying to maintain this balance, Turkey often upset both camps. Whenever any party was irritated or offended by this Turkish policy, It made some concessions, flexed its attitude, or provided reassurance to prevent the eventful deterioration of the relationship. This research functions as an educational framework for counselors and educational experts to develop proficiency in the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the International Diplomacy of the newly established Turkish Republic. Learners who acquire knowledge from this research will gain a detailed understanding of the reasons behind the downfall of the Ottoman hegemony and the neutral international policy of the Republic. A distinctive element of this research focused on analyzing how the Republic of Turkey pursued its foreign policy by countering German and Soviet threats and balancing Anglo-French pressure. National and International governments, along with peace advocates and policymakers, need to study the collective information about the causes of the decline of the empire and further their neutral diplomacy in order to enhance national identity while rebuilding national consciousness so they can establish international relationships for developing a better resilient nation.