Constitution of the Ottoman Empire

The Ottoman Constitution, first established in 1876 and later revised in 1908, was a foundational legal document that defined the empire's government structure. It introduced a parliamentary system, ensured certain civil liberties, and limited the powers of the Sultan by creating a constitutional monarchy. While it sought to modernize governance and promote fairness among diverse groups within the empire, its application was often inconsistent, and political authority remained concentrated. Overall, the constitution aimed to balance traditional Ottoman authority with progressive reforms, shaping the empire’s political evolution during a period of significant change.