English trade and diplomatic relations with the Osmanli caliphate during the reign of Elizabeth I (1578-1602 CE)

Abstract

In the early 16th century, Osmanli Caliphate was a formidable force, feared and adhered to by most European powers. England, an emerging empire was anxious to discover new opportunities and possible new ally in the Osmanlis against any possible threat. Thus, Elizabeth I granted the establishment of Levant Company in 1581 and blessed it with funds and political leverage for the future of the empire. Beginning 1582 until her majesty’s death, the company had initiated and excelled English economy, diplomatic relations and socio-political understandings with the Osmanli court, which eventually benefitted both empires. Hence, this study examines the role of the Levant Company in addition to its impacts and legacies which lasted for another 300 years in the Levant region. The study initially focuses on trade and economic concerns and later discusses further the diplomatic and socio-political effects. Emphasising only on its early years from 1580 to 1602, the study draws from a series of data retrieved from archives, personal records or diaries and scholarly works. Consequently, this study highlights the unique relationship of these two distinct empires from both English and Osmanli court perspectives.