Question

In a one-paragraph essay, describe the ways that England and France exerted influence over the Ottoman Empire. Your paragraph should be at least four complete sentences long and written in your own words.

Answer 1

England and France influenced the Ottoman Empire by trying to prevent its collapse to maintain trade routes and counterbalance Russia, which led to increased European influence and ultimately division of territories after World War I.

Step-by-step explanation:

Throughout the nineteenth century, England and France greatly influenced the Ottoman Empire. In an era marked by the empire's decline, these European powers sought to prevent the complete dissolution of the Ottoman state, largely to counterbalance Russia's growing ambition in the region. England and France were particularly concerned with maintaining access to vital Mediterranean trade routes and therefore took measures to bolster the weakening Ottoman administration. This strategic support, however, came with increased European intrusion into Ottoman affairs, thereby extending British and French influence throughout the empire. Their involvement culminated after World War I when they established mandates over former Ottoman territories, dividing influence in areas such as Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Iraq to serve their imperial interests.