Letter Diplomacy in the Ottoman-Russian Relations in the Abdulhamid II Period Activities

Abstract

The aim of this study is to reveal the importance of letter diplomacy in Ottoman-Russian relations during the reign of Abdulhamid II. In this study, the importance of letters and their contribution to the relations of those two countries are evaluated. Diplomacy has an important place in Ottoman-Russian relations during the Abdulhamid II period. Diplomatic relations between two countries began after the 1877-1878 Ottoman-Russian War.  Letter diplomacy has gained great importance in this process. Letter diplomacy played a major role in the Armenian problem, the Cretan issue, and the events of Bulgaria and Eastern Rumelia. In addition, letters were sent for the appointment of ambassadors, birthday celebration and coronation.  Sultan Abdulhamid II made a great effort in order to maintain diplomatic relationships with Russia.