The Evolution of British Commercial Diplomacy in the Ottoman Empire

Abstract

Commercial diplomacy, that involves the activities of diplomatic actors such as information gathering, lobbying and negotiating for the interest of their nationals in host countries, was used by the European powers to further their imperialistic goals through trade and investments. This study attempts to explain the evolution of British commercial diplomacy in the Ottoman Empire. In the earlier stage of diplomatic activities, between 1830 and 1875, British diplomacy concentrated in promoting free trade and investments that facilitated trade. After 1875, when the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire became imminent, the British government wanted to increase its economic presence in this country by considering new investments in order to make future claims on the spoils of the expected to be defunct Ottoman state.

Keywords

• British Commercial Diplomacy,Ottoman Empire

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