THE OTTOMAN COUP OF 1908 AND ITS REFLECTIONS ON THE BULGARIAN QUESTION

Abstract

The Ottoman coup of 1908, also known as the Young Turk Revolution, marked a pivotal turning point in the political landscape of the late Ottoman Empire. It had profound repercussions on the Bulgarian question—a term referring to Bulgaria’s pursuit of independence and regional sovereignty amidst the decline of Ottoman dominance. This upheaval not only reshaped the internal power dynamics within the empire but also influenced regional alliances, diplomatic strategies, and aspirations for independence among the Balkan states, particularly Bulgaria. By examining the political repercussions of the coup, its impact on the Bulgarian national movement, and its broader regional consequences, this study aims to clarify the complex interaction between Ottoman internal reforms and regional nationalist movements during a critical stage in Balkan history. During the second half of the 19th century, the Ottoman state suffered from severe issues. In addition to the accumulated debts on the state budget and their heavy interests, the true policies of the Great Powers became evident, especially those of Great Britain, France, Russia, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which were carving up parts of the Ottoman state after having claimed the right to preserve it. However, Germany showed no ambitions toward the Ottoman Empire. The research consists of an introduction, two main axes, and a conclusion, namely: First Axis: Sultan Abdul Hamid II’s orientation in his foreign policy toward Germany. Second Axis: The coup carried out by the Committee of Union and Progress.