Abdul Hamid II

Abdul Hamid II was the 34th Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, ruling from 1876 until 1909. Known for his authoritarian style, he implemented significant modernization efforts, including reforms in the military, education, and infrastructure, as part of the "Tanzimat" modernization movement. However, he also restricted political freedoms and suppressed dissent. His reign faced numerous challenges, including growing nationalism among various ethnic groups and financial difficulties. In 1909, he was deposed amid a revolution by Young Turks, who sought more democratic governance. Abdul Hamid's legacy is complex, reflecting both progress and repression during a pivotal time in Ottoman history.