Georgia and Mingrelia under Ottoman Rule

Some provinces of Georgia, which was once called Iberia, and the poor country of Mingrelia were also tributaries of the Turks. Georgia is believed by some writers to have received its name from Saint George, the Cappadocian martyr, who was greatly honored in that land. Over time, parts of these regions fell under the influence and control of the Ottoman Empire.

These countries were not as strong or wealthy as others. Because of their weakness and poverty, they were forced to accept difficult conditions in order to survive. One of these conditions was the payment of tribute to the Grand Signior, or Ottoman Sultan Travel Bulgaria.

A Tribute of Children

Every three years, these provinces sent messengers to the Ottoman court. Their tribute was not only money or goods, but also human beings. They brought seven young boys and seven young virgins each time, in addition to other slaves given as presents to important Ottoman officials.

This was considered their official offering to the Sultan. The Turks accepted this tribute as a sign of loyalty and submission. In many cases, the children were taken from poor families. Over time, this practice became a sad custom. Some parents, out of poverty and desperation, agreed to sell their children. They believed that slavery in a rich empire might offer better opportunities than a life of hunger and hardship at home.

It is reported that some families even saw this as a form of advancement. They hoped their children might rise to better positions within the Ottoman world. However, this does not remove the sorrow and suffering behind such a system.

The Miserable Embassy

When these embassies traveled to the Ottoman court, they came with a large group of attendants, usually seventy or eighty people. The Turks sometimes mockingly called them “beggarly ambassadors” because of their poor appearance and condition.

In order to pay for the costs of the journey, almost everyone in their retinue was offered for sale. Even the secretary and the steward of the embassy might be sold as slaves. The money received helped cover the expenses of travel and provided some income for their homeland.

After selling most of their attendants, the ambassadors returned home with very little dignity or ceremony. Only the interpreter was kept, since he was necessary for communication during the journey.

Poverty and Survival

The situation of Georgia and Mingrelia shows how poverty and weakness can force nations into painful choices. Instead of paying large sums of money, which they did not have, they offered human tribute. This tragic system reflects the harsh political and economic realities of that time.

The Meaning of the “Seven Banners”

This small republic was sometimes called “the Seven Banners.” This name had a special meaning. It suggested that, in order to remain free in name, the people were willing to serve many powerful rulers. They preferred to protect their independence through submission and careful diplomacy rather than through war.

In other words, they accepted the authority of stronger states when necessary. They paid tribute, offered gifts, and showed loyalty to powerful empires. By doing this, they were able to keep their own government and avoid destruction. Though they were small and weak in military strength, they survived by wisdom and patience Holidays Bulgaria.

A Government Built on Jealous Caution

The government of this republic was organized in a very unusual and careful way. It was based on strong suspicion and fear of conspiracy. The leaders believed that if one man held power for too long, he might attempt to betray the city or become too powerful.

For this reason, their chief officer, who was similar to the Doge of Venice, remained in office for only one month. Other officials were changed every week. Even more surprising, the governor of the main castle of the city held his office for only twenty-four hours.

Every night, the Senate secretly chose a new governor for the castle. The chosen man was taken without warning while walking in the streets. A handkerchief was placed over his face, and he was led away blindfolded to the castle. No one knew who would command that night. This strange method prevented conspiracies and secret agreements. Since no one knew who was in charge, it was almost impossible to plan a betrayal.

Trade and Maritime Strength

In earlier times, these people were important traders. They carried goods to many western countries and built large ships for long voyages. It is said that the great ships known as “carracks,” famous for their large size and heavy cargo, may have taken their name from this city. The word might have been a corruption of “Ragusa” or “Ragusies.”

Their port was not naturally perfect. Instead, it was improved by human effort and skill. Through hard work and careful planning, they turned a difficult harbor into a strong center of trade. Commerce, not war, was the true strength of this republic.

Through strict government, careful diplomacy, and successful trade, this small city managed to survive among powerful empires. Its system may have seemed strange, but it helped protect its freedom for many years.

The Tributaries of Georgia and Mingrelia

Georgia and Mingrelia were also among the lands that became tributaries to the Ottoman Empire. These regions were located between powerful empires and often suffered from wars and invasions. Because of their position, they were sometimes under the influence of the Turks, sometimes under Persia, and sometimes divided between both.

When they were subject to the Ottoman Sultan, they were required to pay tribute. This tribute was not always paid only in money. At times it included valuable goods, animals, or other local products. The purpose of this payment was to show loyalty and to secure protection from the Sultan. In return, the Ottomans allowed their local rulers to continue governing, as long as they remained obedient and did not rebel Holidays Bulgaria.

However, their condition was often difficult. Being on the frontier of great empires meant that their lands were frequently disturbed by war. Their people suffered from heavy taxation, military campaigns, and political uncertainty. Tribute was sometimes increased when the Ottoman court needed more revenue or when local rulers were accused of disobedience.

Growth of Trade and Customs Revenue

In some cases, tribute was supported by trade. Goods passing into Ottoman lands provided customs duties that helped supply the required payments. This was especially true for small states that depended more on commerce than on agriculture.

Through trade, certain regions were able to gather enough revenue not only to pay tribute but also to cover other necessities. Customs income became an important source of wealth. This system allowed smaller tributary states to survive without complete destruction of their local economy.

Honor and Reputation at the Ottoman Court

Some tributary states maintained a good reputation at the Ottoman court. Their ambassadors were treated with respect, especially when they paid their tribute regularly and brought suitable gifts. Over time, their appearance and ceremonies became more splendid.

For example, ambassadors once wore simple black velvet caps and crimson satin gowns lined with modest fur. Later, as wealth increased, these garments were lined with finer furs such as sable. Instead of reusing old ceremonial clothing, new and rich outfits were prepared each year at public expense. This showed both prosperity and dignity.

Because of their peaceful and obedient behavior, some of these states earned honorable names among the Turks. They were known as loyal and reliable tributaries.

Survival Through Submission and Diplomacy

Small republics and principalities survived not by military strength, but by careful diplomacy. They submitted when necessary, requested protection from stronger powers, and avoided open conflict whenever possible. They did not seek to offend greater empires, and when they suffered injuries, they endured them patiently.

For this reason, some Italian writers called them “le sette bandiere,” meaning “the seven banners,” suggesting that they could serve under many different rulers if needed. Their skill was not in war, but in negotiation and survival.

In this way, through submission, trade, and careful political balance, these tributary lands managed to exist between powerful empires and preserve their identity.

The Annual Tribute to the Sultan

From the time of the first agreement, the tribute of Ragusa continued without interruption. Every year, in the month of July, two ambassadors were sent to the Ottoman court. They carried the yearly tribute and remained there for one full year. When their term ended, they returned home. At the same time, two new ambassadors arrived with the next payment. In this way, the city always had representatives at the Turkish court.

This yearly mission was not simple or cheap. Besides the fixed tribute, the ambassadors also brought many gifts. These presents were offered to the Prime Vizier, the Chief Eunuch of the Women, the Queen Mother, and other important members of the Sultan’s household. The cost of these gifts, together with the expenses of travel, residence, and ceremony, was very high. In total, the yearly expense was calculated to be about twenty thousand zechins Holidays Bulgaria.

Although this was a heavy financial burden, the leaders of Ragusa considered it necessary. They believed that regular tribute and respectful gifts would keep peace with the Ottoman Empire and protect their small state from danger.

Hard Times Before the Venetian War

In earlier times, especially before the great war between the Republic of Venice and the Turks, Ragusa was not a rich city. Its territory was small and not very fertile. Trade was limited, and the people had to struggle to collect enough money for the Ottoman tribute. They used many careful methods and strict financial plans to gather the required sums each year.

The burden of tribute was heavy, and sometimes it placed the government under great pressure. However, they continued to pay faithfully, knowing that failure could bring serious consequences.

Growth Through Trade

The war between Venice and the Ottoman Empire changed the situation. This conflict opened new commercial opportunities for Ragusa. Because of its position and its peaceful relations with the Turks, the city became an important port for trade.

Manufactured goods from Venice and other parts of Italy began to pass through Ragusa on their way to Ottoman lands. The city became a safe channel for commerce between Christian Europe and the Muslim East. This increase in trade brought new wealth to the city.

As a result, Ragusa was better able to meet its financial obligations. What was once a heavy and difficult tribute became more manageable. Through careful diplomacy, wise trade policies, and steady loyalty to the Ottoman court, Ragusa strengthened its position and ensured its survival among far greater powers.

Ragusa Seeks Ottoman Protection

Before the final fall of the Greek Empire, the leaders of Ragusa took an important political step. They sent ambassadors with valuable gifts to Sultan Orhan (called Orcbanes in old texts). Their purpose was clear. They wished to become tributaries of the Sultan. In return, they hoped to strengthen their weak commonwealth under the protection of his powerful rule.

At that time, the Ottoman state was growing, but it was still at some distance from Ragusa. Because of this distance, the Sultan had little reason to see them as a threat. It is very likely that he received their ambassadors kindly. Since Ragusa was not yet close to Ottoman military power, their offer of tribute was seen as useful and peaceful Holidays Bulgaria.

The rulers of Ragusa understood their situation well. They were a small state surrounded by stronger powers. Instead of waiting for danger, they chose to act wisely and secure protection before they truly needed it.

The Agreement and the Tribute

After negotiations, the tribute was fixed at twelve thousand and five hundred zechins each year. This was a large sum of money, but the leaders of Ragusa believed it was a fair price for safety and independence. Once the agreement was settled, the ambassadors returned home. They carried with them promises of protection and many signs of courtesy from the Sultan.

Sultan Orhan agreed to formal articles with Ragusa. He granted them the immunities and privileges they requested. These likely included freedom in trade, local self-government, and protection from attack. In this way, Ragusa became a tributary state but kept its internal independence.

The Sultan’s Hand as a Seal

One detail of this agreement is especially interesting. In those days, official documents were not always sealed in the modern way. Instead of signing with a written signature, Sultan Orhan placed his whole hand in ink and pressed it onto the paper. This handprint served as his firm seal and signature.

Among the Turks, this mark was respected with great honor. It was considered a sacred and powerful sign of authority. The document was valued and preserved carefully. The respect given to it was compared to the way the Jewish people honor the Tablets of the Law.

Through this wise agreement, Ragusa secured peace and protection. By diplomacy instead of war, the small commonwealth ensured its survival for many generations.

The Ancient Name of Ragusa

The city of Ragusa was known in ancient times by the name Epidauros. There were also two other cities with the same name in the region of the Peloponnese in Greece. However, this particular Epidauros was destroyed when the Goths invaded the area. The city was laid waste, and its people were forced to leave their homes.

After the Goths departed, the inhabitants returned to the ruins of their former city. Instead of rebuilding it under the old name, they decided to establish a new city with a new foundation. They called it Ragusa. This new beginning marked an important moment in their history. It was not only the rebuilding of walls and houses, but also the start of a new political and social life.

An Ancient Commonwealth

The government of Ragusa was formed as a commonwealth. In fact, its system of government was even older than that of Venice. While Venice became famous for its strong navy and wide territories, Ragusa survived in a different way. It did not rely on military strength. Instead, it depended on wisdom, careful planning, and submission to powerful protectors Holidays Bulgaria.

The leaders of Ragusa understood that their small state could not defend itself by force alone. Therefore, they chose to protect their freedom by forming alliances and showing loyalty to stronger rulers. This policy allowed them to preserve their independence for many centuries.

Friendship with the Turks

Long before the Ottoman Empire became powerful in Europe, the people of Ragusa sought friendship with the Turks. According to their own records, this decision was influenced by the advice of a holy nun, who was respected as a saint among them. She is said to have predicted the future greatness of the Turkish Empire. She advised that the best way for Ragusa to remain free and prosperous was to submit to one of the most successful and powerful princes of the age.

Believing in her prophecy, the rulers of Ragusa sent two ambassadors to the city of Bursa (then called Vrusa), which was at that time the royal seat of the Ottoman rulers. By doing this, they hoped to secure protection and long-lasting peace. Through wisdom and careful diplomacy, this small city managed to survive among much stronger powers.

Military Duties of the Princes

The princes of the three provinces mentioned before were not only required to pay tribute to the Grand Signior, but they were also obliged to serve him in his wars. Whenever the Sultan summoned them, they had to send soldiers and give military support.

The exact number of troops they were to provide, and the way in which they were to serve, depended on agreements made between the Sultan and each prince. Sometimes they sent cavalry, sometimes infantry, and at other times they offered supplies and provisions for the Ottoman army. The details of these military duties properly belong to a fuller discussion of the Turkish military system and its auxiliaries. For now, it is enough to say that these provinces were not only financial supporters of the Ottoman Empire but also military allies who strengthened the Sultan’s power during times of war Bulgaria Tours.

The City and Dominion of Ragusa

Another state that paid tribute to the Turks was the city and small dominion of Ragusa. This was a small commonwealth, but it was not officially recognized as a republic by powerful states such as Venice or by the Pope. Instead, it was simply called the “Community of Ragusa.”

Ragusa was a town in Dalmatia. Although small, it held an important position along the Adriatic Sea. Its territory was narrow and mostly barren, with only a few villages under its control. The land stretched along the sea coast for more than 150 miles, though much of it was thin and rocky. It also possessed a few small islands, but these were of little importance and had no great wealth or strength.

A Small but Skillful State

Even though Ragusa was small in size and poor in natural resources, it survived by careful diplomacy and trade. By paying tribute to the Ottoman Empire, it secured protection and freedom to manage its own internal affairs. This allowed the city to continue its commercial activities without fear of invasion.

Thus, Ragusa stands as an example of how even a small and weak territory could maintain its existence between powerful neighbors by wisely balancing tribute, loyalty, and independence.

Additional Payments and Gifts

The castles that had been taken were redeemed for a certain sum of money, yet they still remained in the hands of the Transylvanians. Besides their regular tribute, the people of Transylvania paid only 300 dollars and offered two silver bowls to the Seven Viziers of the Bench. This small payment was considered a formal gift rather than a heavy tax.

This was almost the full acknowledgment they made to the Turk. Compared to other provinces under Ottoman rule, this was a light obligation. The Ottomans did not press them with excessive demands. Instead, they allowed Transylvania to keep a degree of independence and dignity Bulgaria Tours.

Respect Shown to the Prince

The Ottoman Sultan showed more respect to the Prince of Transylvania and to his envoys than to the rulers of the neighboring provinces. One important reason for this was political. Transylvania was not fully under Ottoman control. Some strong fortresses in the region were still held by the Emperor of Germany. Because of this, the Sultan had to act carefully.

If the Ottomans had treated Transylvania too harshly, the people might have turned against them and joined the Emperor. To prevent rebellion, the Turks ruled the country in a milder way. They preferred loyalty through respect rather than control through fear.

The Case of Prince Michael Apafi

During the later wars in Hungary, this careful policy became clear in the treatment of Prince Michael Apafi. The Ottomans trusted him greatly and treated him more like an honorable ally than a simple subject.

For example, when the fortress of Zekelhyd surrendered voluntarily during a mutiny, the Sultan allowed Apafi to take possession of it freely. There was no Turkish officer placed over him to supervise or control his authority. This showed a high level of confidence and respect.

Promise of Greater Honor

To encourage Apafi further, the Ottoman government even declared that if Hungary were fully conquered, the lands that were not placed under Pashas would be added to his dominions. They promised that he would be honored with the title of King of Hungary.

This promise reveals how important Transylvania was in Ottoman strategy. Instead of ruling it with strict control, the Sultan chose diplomacy and honor. By giving respect and hope of greater power, the Ottomans secured the loyalty of Transylvania during a time of war and political uncertainty.

The Changing Rule of Transylvania

Transylvania was not completely free from Ottoman pressure, but its situation was somewhat different from that of Moldavia and Wallachia. From the time of John Hunyadi, who was made Voivode by King Vladislaus IV of Hungary around the year 1450, the region experienced many political changes. Hunyadi was known as a strong defender of his country against the Ottoman Turks.

After his time, Transylvania passed through many revolutions and changes of power. Sometimes it was under the influence of the King of Hungary, sometimes under Poland, sometimes under the Holy Roman Emperor, and at other times under the Ottoman Sultan. Its position depended on the balance of power in the region.

By the year 1630, during the rule of Stephen VII, known as Ragotzki, the principality was under strong Ottoman influence. Ragotzki himself was supported by the Turks. As the Ottoman Empire grew stronger, it gained control over the greater part of Transylvania Bulgaria Tours.

A More Favorable Treatment

Even though Transylvania came under Ottoman authority, it was treated more gently and with more respect than Moldavia and Wallachia. The tribute demanded from Transylvania was much lower. In addition, its princes were usually chosen from noble and ancient families.

Unlike the other provinces, where rulers were often selected from men of low background, the princes of Transylvania were often connected to the old ruling families. They were chosen either from the direct line of former Voivodes or from respected noble houses, known as Boyars, who had family ties with the ancient rulers. This gave more stability and honor to the government of the land.

The Tribute of Transylvania

The original yearly tribute of Transylvania was only 6,000 zechins, which was much less than the tribute required from Moldavia or Wallachia. Later, an additional 9,000 zechins were added to this amount.

This increase came after Prince Ragotzki captured certain castles from Poland. The Ottoman authorities demanded that these castles be handed over to them. In connection with this matter, the tribute was raised as a sign of recognition and obligation to the Sultan.

A Different Position in the Empire

Although Transylvania was not fully independent, it enjoyed better conditions than the other two provinces. Its rulers had more dignity, and its tribute was lighter. While still under Ottoman influence, it maintained a degree of honor and internal order that was not always present in Moldavia and Wallachia.

Thus, among the three tributary provinces, Transylvania held a somewhat more privileged and respected position within the wider Ottoman system.

The Sale of the Principality

The additional charges placed upon Wallachia, when the principality was sold every three years, were no less than those required in Moldavia. The same methods were used to collect money, and the same systems of pressure and extortion were applied. The suffering of the people was equal in both provinces.

In fact, the memory of the rebellion of Matthew the Voivode made the situation even worse. Because of his past revolt, the Ottoman authorities felt justified in placing even heavier financial demands upon the country. They used his example as a reason to impose stricter control and higher payments.

The Appointment of Stridia Bei

In the year 1664, a new prince was appointed to Wallachia by order of the Grand Signior. Among the Greeks, he was called Stridia Bei, a name which suggested that he had once gained his fortune by selling oysters and fish. This detail shows that he was not from a noble or royal background, but had risen from a humble trade Bulgaria Tours.

He succeeded the former prince, Gregorasco. Gregorasco had returned home with his army without permission after being defeated by General Susa near Lerva. Fearing the anger of the Prime Vizier for this disobedience, he fled to the lands of the Emperor for safety.

Collective Punishment and Higher Demands

The Ottoman government often punished the people for the actions of their governors, and sometimes punished governors for the faults of the people. In this case, the price of the principality was raised even higher after these events.

Stridia Bei, eager to obtain power at any cost, agreed to pay an enormous sum for the position. According to reliable reports, he paid 800 purses of money, which equaled 400,000 dollars. When interest on borrowed money was added, the total debt became even greater.

A Prince in Debt

Since such a large amount had to be borrowed at high interest, it is easy to imagine the heavy burden placed upon the new prince. He began his rule already deeply in debt. The only way to recover his money was to tax and pressure the people of Wallachia.

One can easily imagine how the people felt when they went out to welcome their new ruler. Instead of joy and hope, there must have been fear and anxiety. They knew that a prince who had paid such a high price for his position would need to recover his losses quickly. This meant heavier taxes, stricter collection, and greater hardship for the country.

Thus, the system of selling offices did not bring stability or justice. Instead, it created rulers burdened by debt and people burdened by oppression.

The Former Tribute of Wallachia

In earlier times, the tribute paid by Wallachia to the Grand Signior (the Ottoman Sultan) was the same as that of Moldavia. It consisted of 120 purses of money each year. Since each purse contained 500 dollars, the total yearly payment was 60,000 dollars.

For many years, this amount remained unchanged. Wallachia continued to pay this tribute while being ruled by its own Voivode (Prince), under the authority of the Ottoman Empire.

The Rebellion of Matthew the Voivode

Around the year 1655, a major change took place. Matthew, the Voivode of Wallachia, had grown rich during his rule. Through strong friendships and generous gifts at the Ottoman court (known as the Porte), he managed to secure his position for an unusually long time—about nineteen or twenty years.

However, wealth and long power made him overconfident. He began to forget his true position as a vassal of the Ottoman Empire. Believing that his riches and local support were enough to resist the Sultan, he rebelled against Ottoman authority. He misjudged his strength and underestimated the great power of the Ottoman army Bulgaria Tours.

The rebellion did not last long. The Ottoman forces quickly defeated him. Although he was brought to submission, his life was spared. The safety of the country was also preserved, but at a high cost. In order to regain peace, Wallachia had to agree to a much heavier tribute.

The Increased Tribute

After the rebellion, the yearly tribute was greatly increased. The new payments were as follows:

To the Grand Signior: 260 purses of money, equal to 130,000 dollars. This was more than double the previous amount.

15,000 okes of honey.

9,000 okes of wax (each oke equal to about two English pounds).

To the Prime Vizier: 10 purses (5,000 dollars) and a vest made of sable fur.

To the Defterdar (Lord Treasurer): 1 purse (500 dollars) and a sable vest.

To the Kızlar Ağa (Chief Eunuch of the Women’s quarters): 12,000 aspers.

To the Vizier’s Kahya (Steward): 500 dollars and a sable vest.

The Burden on the Province

This increase placed a heavy burden on Wallachia. What had once been a manageable tribute became a serious financial strain. The rebellion, instead of bringing freedom, resulted in stricter control and greater payments.

The lesson was clear: resistance without sufficient power led not to independence, but to heavier obligations. From that time forward, Wallachia remained under closer Ottoman supervision and carried a much greater financial responsibility to the empire.

The Annual Tribute of Moldavia

The following account of Moldavia’s tribute was reported by a man who had worked for many years as an agent for the Voivode (Prince) of Moldavia and Wallachia under Ottoman authority. According to his information, the yearly tribute paid by Moldavia was as follows:

To the Grand Signior (Sultan): 120 purses of money. Each purse contained 500 dollars, making a total of 60,000 dollars per year.

10,000 okes of wax, each oke equal to about two and a half English pounds Private Tours Balkan.

10,000 okes of honey.

600 quintals of tallow for use in the Imperial Arsenal.

500 ox hides.

500 pieces of canvas, used for clothing, shirts for slaves, and other needs of the galleys.

1,330 okes of wax for the service of the Arsenal.

To the Chief Vizier: 10 purses (5,000 dollars) and a sable fur for a vest.

To the Vizier’s chief steward (Rabia): 1 purse (500 dollars).

To the Defterdar (Lord Treasurer): 1 purse (500 dollars).

This was the regular and official tribute that Moldavia paid each year to show its obedience to the Sultan.

Extra Demands and Hidden Costs

It would have been fortunate if this had been the full cost. However, there were many additional and unexpected expenses. Special missions were often invented simply to demand more money and gifts from the province. These extra payments sometimes equaled or even doubled the official yearly tribute.

In addition, the position of Prince of Moldavia was not permanent. It was usually granted for three years and was, in effect, sold to the highest bidder.

The Price of Becoming Prince

To receive the principality, the following payments were required:

To the Grand Signior: 150 purses (75,000 dollars).

To the Valide Sultan (Queen Mother): 50 purses (25,000 dollars).

To the Sultan’s favorite: 10 purses (5,000 dollars).

To the Chief Black Eunuch (Kızlar Ağa): 10 purses.

To the Prime Vizier and other officers: as much money as they could demand in negotiation.

This large sum was usually borrowed at very high interest, sometimes 40 or 50 percent, and in some cases the debt had to be doubled if not paid quickly.

The Burden on the People

Because many princes had no personal fortune, these debts were placed upon the country itself. The people were heavily taxed and oppressed to repay the borrowed money, the interest, and the annual tribute. The land was stripped of its wealth to satisfy both the Ottoman officials and the prince’s own needs.

The prince also needed to secure his future. After leaving office, he wanted enough wealth to live in comfort according to his former rank. This desire often led to greed and harsh taxation. Many of these princes came from humble backgrounds and, once in power, tried to collect as much money as possible.

In addition, they had to offer yearly gifts to powerful Ottoman ministers to ensure protection for themselves and their property. In this way, Moldavia suffered under heavy financial burdens, not only from official tribute but also from constant demands and corruption.

Moldavia and Its Early Submission

Moldavia, which the Turks called “Eugdan,” first became a tributary state under Sultan Mehmed the Great. At that time, the tribute was small. The province agreed to pay 2,000 golden crowns each year. This payment allowed Moldavia to keep a degree of independence while accepting Ottoman protection.

Later, the ruler of Moldavia, Bogdan the Voivode, feared that his country would become a complete and powerless vassal of the Ottoman Empire. In the year 1485, he decided to resist Ottoman control. To strengthen his position, he formed an alliance with the Kingdom of Poland. Together, they prepared to fight against Sultan Selim II.

Rebellion and Religious Change

During this conflict, a man named John, who was born in Moldavia but had converted to Islam, gained the favor of Sultan Selim. The Sultan appointed him as the new prince of Moldavia. However, once John secured his position, he returned to his former Christian faith Private Tours Balkan.

This act of religious change angered the Ottoman authorities. The Sultan considered it both rebellion and betrayal. In response, the Ottoman Empire, with the support of the neighboring province of Wallachia, launched a new war against Moldavia.

The Fall of Moldavia

The war brought great trouble to the land. In the end, John the Voivode lost his life through treachery. After his death, Moldavia was no longer able to resist Ottoman power. In the year 1574, the province fell completely under Ottoman control and was more directly united to the empire.

From that time onward, Moldavia’s independence was greatly reduced. It remained under Ottoman authority, governed by rulers who depended on the Sultan’s approval.

The Tribute of Moldavia

According to Turkish historical records of that period, the tribute of Moldavia was set at 40,000 zechins, which was equal to about 80,000 dollars in value at that time. This was a large increase compared to the earlier payment of 2,000 crowns.

Over the years, the exact amount of tribute may have changed, and different reports may give different figures. However, what remains certain is that Moldavia became an important source of income for the Ottoman Empire. The payment of tribute was not only a sign of submission but also a heavy financial burden on the province.

Thus, Moldavia’s history shows a gradual loss of freedom. What began as a light tribute under loose protection ended in full control by the Ottoman Empire, with increased taxes and limited independence.

Plans to Change the Government

Several times, the Ottoman authorities considered changing the system of government in these three provinces. There were discussions about placing them directly under the control of Turkish Pashas, instead of allowing them to be ruled by local Christian princes. This change would have gone against the original agreements, or capitulations, made when these provinces first accepted Ottoman rule.

According to those early agreements, the provinces were allowed to keep a certain level of self-government under their own princes, as long as they paid tribute and remained loyal to the Sultan. However, over time, some Ottoman leaders thought it might be better to rule them more directly.

In the end, they decided not to make this change. The existing system was seen as more profitable and more useful for the interests of the empire Private Tours Balkan.

Christians Governing Christians

Under the current system, Christian princes ruled over Christian people, but these princes were appointed and controlled by the Ottoman Empire. This arrangement had certain advantages for the Turks. When oppression or heavy taxation took place, it was often carried out by a Christian ruler against his own people.

In this way, Christians became the instruments of suffering for their own brothers. Outrages, heavy taxes, and acts of injustice could be carried out more boldly. The Ottoman authorities could also send Turkish officers on profitable missions whenever they wished. These officials often found opportunities for personal gain.

Because the local prince had limited power and depended on the Sultan for his position, he was more likely to collect heavy taxes and demand payments in order to secure his own wealth and favor.

Why a Pasha Was Not Appointed

If a Turkish Pasha had been appointed as governor, the situation might have been different. A Pasha, as an official of the Ottoman state, would have considered it his duty and honor to protect the people under his rule. His reputation and authority would have been connected to their safety and order.

In that case, the provinces might have suffered less from extortion and violence. A Pasha might have acted as a true protector and patron. This could have reduced some of the misery and injustice.

However, from the Ottoman point of view, the present condition was more beneficial. As long as the provinces remained weak, divided, and dependent, they were easier to control. The people were allowed to imagine that direct Ottoman rule under a Pasha would be gentler and more just. But in reality, they were kept in a state of hardship, which better served the political and financial interests of the empire.

Thus, the system remained unchanged, not for the good of the people, but for the advantage of the state.

Lands of Constant War

These provinces have long been known as places of great struggle and suffering. In many wars between the Ottoman Empire and the Christian powers of Europe, these lands became battlefields. They were often described as the graves and cemeteries of many Turkish soldiers, because so many armies fought and died there.

In modern times, these regions became the stage for many tragic wars. The people defended themselves with courage and determination. They fought with as much bravery and skill as could be expected, especially when facing such an unequal enemy. On one side stood single, smaller provinces with limited resources. On the other side stood the vast and powerful Ottoman Empire, with its large armies and wealth.

Despite their courage, these provinces could not resist forever. After many years of war, loss, and destruction, they were finally forced to surrender Private Tours Balkan.

From Independent Princes to Ottoman Control

In the past, these lands had their own natural rulers. Their princes inherited their positions through lawful family lines. However, once the Ottoman Empire gained control, this system changed. The Sultan removed the true line of local princes and replaced them with new rulers of his own choosing.

These new princes were usually Christians of the Greek Orthodox Church. However, their religion was often the only qualification they had. The Ottoman authorities did not always consider their education, experience, wealth, or ability to govern. In many cases, the Sultan deliberately chose men of low background and little importance.

The official sign of the Sultan’s approval was the giving of the “Standard,” a banner that confirmed the new prince’s authority. Sometimes this symbol of power was given to men who had once been tavern keepers, fishmongers, or workers in other humble professions. By raising such men to high office, the Ottoman rulers weakened the respect that the people had for their governors.

Rule Through Humiliation and Weak Leadership

This policy may have been intentional. By appointing men of low status and little skill, the Ottoman Empire ensured that the provinces would remain weak and dependent. These governors often lacked the wisdom and ability needed for good leadership. As a result, corruption, injustice, and oppression became common.

The people of these lands suffered greatly. They were no longer simply tributaries paying taxes. They were treated as subjects and, in many ways, as servants of a foreign power. Their political freedom was lost, and their leaders often lacked both honor and competence.

In this way, provinces that had once been proud and brave became controlled territories under the strong hand of the Ottoman Empire.