The Invention of the Eastern Question: Sir Robert Liston and Ottoman Diplomacy in the Age of Revolutions.

The article focuses on Ozan Ozavcı's book, which examines the role of Ottoman diplomacy in the geopolitical tensions between the Russian and Ottoman empires during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, particularly through the lens of the 'Eastern Question.' Ozavcı challenges the traditional narrative of Ottoman decline, arguing instead that the empire was actively engaged in international diplomacy, with British ambassador Robert Liston playing a significant role in mediating conflicts. The book traces the origins of the 'Eastern Question' to the Congress of Karlowitz and explores how differing perspectives on the issue contributed to major conflicts, including the Crimean War. Ultimately, it highlights the complexities of Ottoman diplomacy and the implications of European intervention in the empire's affairs. [Extracted from the article]