Abdul Hamid II

Reign: 1876 – 1909
Life: 1842–1918

Elevated to power in the wake of Young Ottoman coups, he promulgated the Ottoman Empire's first constitution, a sign of the progressive thinking that marked his early rule. But his enthronement came in the context of the Great Eastern Crisis, which began with the Empire's default on its loans, uprisings by Christian Balkan minorities, and a war with the Russian Empire. At the end of the crisis, Ottoman rule in the Balkans and its international prestige were severely diminished, and the Empire lost its economic sovereignty as its finances came under the control of the Great Powers through the Ottoman Public Debt Administration. In 1878, Abdul Hamid consolidated his rule by suspending both the constitution and the parliament, purging the Young Ottomans, and curtailing the power of the Sublime Porte.

During Abdul Hamid II's reign, Franz Joseph I of Austria ruled Austria, Emperor Meiji ruled Japan, and Wilhelm II ruled Prussia.

Want to learn more? Further reading

Osman's Dream: The History of the Ottoman Empire 1300–1923 by Caroline Finkel

Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.

The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.

By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. See our Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe any time.

From the library

Go deeper on Abdul Hamid II

Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

Osman's Dream: The History of the Ottoman Empire 1300–1923

Caroline Finkel

A modern narrative history of the sultans and the empire they ruled for six centuries.

Find this book on Amazon

Lords of the Horizons: A History of the Ottoman Empire
Jason Goodwin
A lyrical, readable introduction to Ottoman court life, conquest, and decline.
Find on Amazon