The Controversial Death of Sultan Abdülaziz: A Tale of Conspiracy and Intrigue




The text discusses the controversial death of Sultan Abdülaziz, who was both an Ottoman Sultan and the 111th Islamic Caliph. While official records state that he died by suicide, many historians believe that he was actually murdered, and his death was made to look like suicide.

Abdülaziz became Sultan at the age of 31 in 1861 and reigned for nearly 15 years. He implemented various modernizations, particularly in the Ottoman navy and military. He was known for his proficiency in French, and he was the first Sultan to travel to Western Europe. He also made significant visits to Egypt and initiated steamship services in the Bosphorus.

During his reign, he dealt with the Balkan uprisings. Following a series of events, a coup occurred on May 30, 1876, leading to his dethronement and the accession of V. Murad. Four days later, Abdülaziz was found dead with his wrists slit, which has led to ongoing debates about whether it was suicide or murder.

Various inconsistencies in the official accounts, along with testimonies from Abdülaziz's family members, have fueled suspicions that he was murdered. His daughter, Nazime Sultan, claimed that eight men attacked her father, inflicting severe injuries. Abdülaziz was a devout and physically strong Sultan, which raises questions about the possibility of him choosing suicide.

The motives behind Abdülaziz's death are believed to be linked to political tensions, including his mixed stance on constitutionalism and the suppression of reformist movements. Hüseyin Avni Pasha, one of the key figures in the coup, was considered a suspect due to fears of Abdülaziz's potential return to power.

The influence of English Masonic lodges, along with Abdülaziz's efforts to establish good relations with Russia, which were perceived as a threat by European powers, are also suggested as factors contributing to his demise.

After Abdülaziz's death, a trial known as the Yıldız Court was held, leading to convictions and punishments for those involved in his murder. Midhat Pasha, a prominent figure, was initially sentenced to death but later exiled to Taif, where he was eventually killed.

In conclusion, the text sheds light on the controversial circumstances surrounding Sultan Abdülaziz's death and the subsequent events that unfolded in the Ottoman Empire.

Sultan Abdülaziz's death remains a subject of intrigue due to conflicting accounts and suspicious circumstances. His daughter, Nadime Hatun, stated that her father had made mistakes, but he was not deserving of such a violent end. Abdülaziz's early support for constitutionalism and later suppression of those advocating for it during his reign are pointed out as potential reasons for discontent.

Hüseyin Avni Pasha, a key figure in Abdülaziz's dethronement, is considered a prime suspect in the murder, as he may have feared Abdülaziz's potential return to power. The trial that followed Abdülaziz's death, known as the Yıldız Court, led to convictions and punishments for those involved.

The influence of English Masonic lodges and Abdülaziz's attempts to form closer ties with Russia were also suggested as potential motives for his assassination.

In the years following Abdülaziz's death, the official narrative shifted from murder to suicide during the reign of Sultan 2. Abdülhamit. However, the controversies and questions surrounding Abdülaziz's death continue to be a subject of historical inquiry and debate.

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