After the 1774 Treaty of Küçük Kaynarca, disputes—particularly with Russia over the treaty’s implementation—and shifts in the European balance of power led to a marked increase in assemblies held in the Ottoman capital. These meetings intensified during the Ottoman–Russian and Austrian War of 1787–1792, both at the center and on the battlefronts. This study examines such assemblies within the framework of Ottoman centralized decision-making, focusing on their administrative functioning. Recorded under various names, including mukaleme and meşveret meetings, they reveal the inner workings of the Ottoman administrative system. The article analyzes their structure, deliberative atmosphere, and decision-making roles during the reigns of Abdülhamid I and Selim III, drawing on primary sources such as Sadullah Enverî’s History, Edib’s History, archival documents, and consultation records.
Ottoman-Russian and Austrian war (1787-1792) Abdülhamid I Selim III Central council Battlefield council
| Primary Language | English |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Late Modern History (Other) |
| Journal Section | Research Article |
| Authors | |
| Submission Date | November 12, 2025 |
| Acceptance Date | December 26, 2025 |
| Publication Date | December 28, 2025 |
| Published in Issue | Year 2025 Issue: 15, December 2025 |