Project

Russia among Great Powers in Fighting for Ottoman Christians: Ideology and Implementation of Patronage Politics in 1774-1856

Program

Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe

Department

Social Sciences

Abstract

This research explores the diverse manifestations of Russian patronage politics towards Ottoman Christians, including Greeks, Bulgarians, Moldavians, Vlachs, and Serbs, in conditions of similar aspirations from the side of Britain, France, and Austria in 1774–1856. It considers how patronage politics toward Ottoman subjects of the Christian faith was a tool actively used by the Russian Empire to solve the "Eastern Question," emphasizing ancient ties and religious commonality. The project traces the long-term implications of Russian patronage politics on the everyday lives of Balkan immigrants resettled in the territory of modern Ukraine.