Can you name key attempts at Ottoman internal reform in the 19th century?

Key attempts at Ottoman internal reform in the 19th century include the Tanzimat Reforms, the Hatt-i Sharif of Gulhane, and the First Constitutional Era.

The Tanzimat Reforms, which took place from 1839 to 1876, were a series of edicts aimed at modernising the Ottoman Empire and securing its territorial integrity against nationalist movements from within and aggressive powers from outside. These reforms were influenced by Western ideas and were designed to effect significant changes in the areas of administration, the military, and social policy. They included the introduction of a new commercial code, a new penal code, and a new civil code, all based on European models. The Tanzimat Reforms also sought to improve the status of non-Muslims in the empire, granting them equal rights with Muslims in areas such as education, employment, and property ownership.

The Hatt-i Sharif of Gulhane, issued in 1839, was a significant part of the Tanzimat Reforms. This edict was a major step towards modernisation and set the stage for the Tanzimat period. It promised to guarantee the life, honour, and property of all subjects, regardless of their religion. It also aimed to regularise the tax system and the military conscription process. The Hatt-i Sharif of Gulhane was a clear indication of the Ottoman Empire's desire to adopt Western-style reforms in order to strengthen itself.

The First Constitutional Era, which lasted from 1876 to 1878, was another key attempt at internal reform. This period saw the introduction of the first Ottoman constitution, which established a constitutional monarchy with a bicameral parliament. The constitution guaranteed equality before the law, freedom of religion, freedom of education, and freedom of the press. However, the First Constitutional Era was short-lived, as Sultan Abdul Hamid II suspended the constitution and parliament in 1878 and ruled as an autocrat for the next 30 years.

These attempts at reform were significant in the history of the Ottoman Empire. They represented a clear effort to modernise and strengthen the empire in the face of internal and external challenges. However, they also faced significant opposition and were not always successful in achieving their goals.