Proposal for Dissertation Ottoman Empire: Safe Haven for Jews (1490 - 1590)
DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT FOR A PROPOSED DISSERTATION. DO NOT UPLOAD!!! Within the period ranging from 1490 to 1590, the Jews were a highly persecuted people within Europe. Countries engaged within the persecution of Jews tended to create conditions which drove out this demographic, and the majority of those searching for a home were warmly welcomed into the Ottoman Empire. Sultan Bajazet is recorded as saying: “How can you
call Ferdinand of Aragon a wise king, [when he is] the same Ferdinand who impoverished his own land and enriched ours?” Historically, the credence for Bajazet’s claim has been disputed in terms of the overall benefits which the Jews did bring to the Ottoman Empire, yet there are indications that the role of the Jews did undeniably promote success within the fledgling trade empire.
