Istanbul

History · State, politics and society

Dutch Fire Diplomacy in Early Modern Istanbul

Like in any other metropole of the early modern world, city fires formed an imminent danger in Ottoman Istanbul. The diplomatic representatives of the Netherlands reported dozens of these fire incidents from their Dutch Palace in the Galata district, not only as spectators but also as victims.

Turkey beyond Partisanship

In a dramatic re-run, the citizens of Istanbul recently elected the opposition’s candidate as their new mayor. “The era of partisanship will end!” was one of his slogans. A Turkey beyond authoritarianism and populism depends on ending partisan politics.