Ottoman Historical Documents: The Institutions of an Empire

This collection of translated primary sources for Ottoman history shows how the major institutions of Ottoman government developed and functioned. Each chapter covers a key topic: Legitimation and Titulature; Princes; Recruitment into the Sultan’s service; the Vizierate and the Divan; the Religio-Legal Institution; Kanunnames (sultanic legislation); Taxation and Finance; Waqfs (endowments); and Treaties and Foreign Relations. Chapters include a brief introduction to provide context for the documents, annotations and a glossary explaining technical terminology and problems of interpretation.