“The Tanzimat reforms did not modernize the Ottoman Empire.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement. Results of the reforms may extend beyond the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may discuss the aims of the reforms to establish whether they were met. Candidates may refer to difficulties in modernization resulting from the size and complexity of the Empire, the attitude of religious leaders to change as well as resentment of foreign influence. The financial and governmental structure of the Empire may be considered as barriers to modernization. Candidates may consider evidence of successful modernization in the areas of education, business and commercial development and improved infrastructure. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.

This question on the Tanzimat reforms was very popular but did not produce many strong responses. Some responses were very descriptive of certain reforms without analysing their effectiveness. Other responses limited themselves to one or two areas only. Overall, there tended to be a lack of analysis of the extent that reform was actually achieved and the nature of the obstacles, both human and institutional. More knowledge and a clear focus on the demands of the question was required in nearly all responses.