Discuss the impact of the Balkan Wars (1912 and 1913) on the Ottoman Empire.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the impact (effects) of the Balkan Wars on the Ottoman Empire. Candidates may offer equal coverage of the wars or they may prioritize their discussion of one over the other. However, both wars will be a feature of the response. Candidates may refer to territorial losses incurred by the Ottoman Empire, and the changes to Ottoman international and military status. The huge number of casualties and the apparent weakness of the Ottoman Empire may also be discussed. Candidates may consider the internal impact of each of the wars, such as increased opposition to the government, internal dissension and conflict and weakened financial power. Candidates may consider the impact of the wars on Ottoman diplomacy, particularly its relations with the Balkan states as well as major powers such as Germany and Russia.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the impact of the Balkan Wars on the Ottoman Empire. This question on the Balkan Wars 1912-1913 demonstrated a number of problems. Many responses were confused in chronology and included such topics as the Greek War of Independence; others were confused with the participants. Overall, many students did not have much knowledge on this topic so tended to discuss generic topics on the effects of wars on the Ottomans. These responses lacked focus and relevant content.