Abdulhamid II

Abdulhamid II was the 34th Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, reigning from 1876 to 1909. He is known for his autocratic rule and efforts to modernize the empire amid rising nationalist movements. Abdulhamid promoted infrastructure projects, such as railways and telegraphs, while also trying to maintain traditional power structures. His regime faced significant challenges, including territorial losses and internal dissent. In 1909, he was deposed by a reformist coup and exiled. His complex legacy includes both modernization efforts and repressive policies, reflecting the tensions of a declining empire grappling with modernity.