Sultan Abdul Hamid II, the last powerful Ottoman Sultan, died on February 10, 1918, reportedly succumbing to inflammation of the lungs. His death occurred in Istanbul (then Constantinople), after spending nine years in captivity following his deposition in 1909.
The Final Years of a Sultan
Abdul Hamid II's reign ended dramatically on April 27, 1909, when he was deposed by the Young Turk movement during the Second Constitutional Era. Following his removal from power, he was initially confined to Allatini Villa in Salonica (now Thessaloniki, Greece).
His captivity lasted for nearly a decade. During the Balkan Wars, for security reasons, he was transferred back to Istanbul in 1912. He spent his remaining years under house arrest at Beylerbeyi Palace, a magnificent residence on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus, which was his final abode.
Cause and Context of Death
Abdul Hamid II's death at the age of 75 was attributed to inflammation of the lungs. He passed away peacefully in his confinement. His passing marked the end of an era for a figure who had wielded significant power for over a quarter of a century, often navigating complex international diplomacy amidst the decline of the Ottoman Empire.
Here's a brief overview of key events leading to his death:
- 1909: Deposed from the throne by the Young Turks.
- 1909-1912: Held captive in Salonica.
- 1912: Transferred to Beylerbeyi Palace in Istanbul.
- 1918: Died from inflammation of the lungs.
A Legacy of Power and Decline
Abdul Hamid II's rule (1876-1909) was characterized by attempts to modernize the empire while maintaining autocratic control. He was known for his astute, albeit sometimes ruthless, political maneuvering and diplomatic skills, trying to preserve the Ottoman Empire's integrity against the encroaching European powers. His era saw significant internal reforms, but also increasing suppression of dissent and ultimately, his overthrow by nationalist and reformist factions.
The table below summarizes the key aspects of his final years:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of Death | February 10, 1918 |
| Reported Cause | Inflammation of the lungs |
| Duration of Captivity | 9 years |
| Final Residence | Beylerbeyi Palace, Istanbul |
| Age at Death | 75 years old |
His death occurred just before the end of World War I, a conflict that would ultimately lead to the complete dissolution of the Ottoman Empire a few years later.
