- Armenian Question
The term "Armenian Question" as used in European history, became common place among diplomatic circles and in the popular press after the
Congress of Berlin ; that in likeEastern Question , refers to powers ofEurope 's involvement to the Armenian subjects of theOttoman Empire beginning with theRusso-Turkish War of 1877-78 . However in specific terms, the Armenian question refers to the protection and the freedoms of Armenians from their neighboring communities."Armenian Studies: Études Arméniennes" by Lebanese Association of Armenian University Graduates, pp. 4-6] The "Armenian question" explains the forty years of Armenian-Ottoman history in the context of English, German, Russian politics between 1877-1914.The "Armenian Question", like the "
Eastern Question ", remained a factor (issue) in international politics, first with Great Britain and Germany; then Russia taking on the role of Ottoman Armenians protector (seeprotectorate of missions ).The origin
During the 18th century Ottoman Empire sustained extensive territorial losses (see:
decline of the Ottoman Empire ) and the Balkan nationalities, aided by European arms and diplomacy began their struggles for their liberation, (see: national awakening in the Balkans). Most Armenians lived in provinces bordering Russia, and not any other European states. Russia—became increasingly involved in Ottoman affairs using the "capitulations of the Ottoman Empire " established after the Russian intervention in 1877-1878. Russia gained control over a large part of Armenia, and became the champion of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire (a protectorate clause). Russia was also instrumental in obtaining the independence of Romania (see:National awakening of Romania ) and Serbia. Beginning with theCongress of Berlin , Armenian question become a pivotal factor, in which sometimes Russia had to step back as a result of the English and German pressure, or vice versa.Historical milestones
Effects of Congress of Berlin
The Armenian National Assembly and Patriarch Nerses II of Constantinople sent
Catholicos Mgrdich Khrimian to Berlin to present the case for the Armenians. In his famous patriotic speech “The Paper Ladle,” Mgrdich Khrimian advised Armenians to take thenational awakening of Bulgaria as a model as the hopes of the Armenian people for self-determination were ignored by the European community of nations. [Haig Ajemian, Hayotz Hayrig, page 511-3; translated by Fr. Vazken Movsesian.]ee also
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Caucasus Campaign References
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