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Pious Foundations (Waqfs) in Jerusalem as a Tool for the Rise of Local Notables During the 18th Century
Abstract
This study mainly aims at introducing the Hurûfât (Askerî Rûznâmçe) Registries for the importance of Ottoman social history with the case of the Kazâ-i Kudüs-i Serif (District of Jerusalem) to the science world which are protected in the Archives of the Prime Ministry of the Directorate General of Foundations. These registries were arranged according to the administrative structure of the time and the names of the districts are arranged in an alphabetical order. The records in the registries include assignment records of the ruling class which were called as ‘askerî within the social structure of the Ottoman State. This study based on 25 Hurûfât Registry records of administratively the District of Jerusalem and covering the years 1102-1834/ 1690-1834. With the analysis of the assignment records of ser’î courts, guilds and city organizations in relation to names of the appointees, the method of appointment, terms of office, the reasons of leaving, we will try to reveal the Ottoman social structure during the 18th century in a local base, that is the District of Jerusalem. In this context, we will also witness how the local notables were tied to the imperial state within a framework of common interests through posts and entitlements to waqf stipends.
Discipline
History
Geographic Area
Ottoman Empire
Sub Area
Ottoman Studies