American Commercial and Business Interes

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the American commercial and business interests in the Ottoman Empire and its successor, Turkey, from the beginning of the relations in the early 19th century until the 1960s. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students will also examine the diplomatic, economic, and cultural factors that shaped the relationship between the United States and Turkey during this period. In addition to the state-level relations, personal accounts of the Americans settled in Turkey will be highly consulted. The course begins by delving into the historical context of American-Ottoman relations, highlighting key events and developments that generally influenced commercial and business interactions. Students will gain insights into the diplomatic efforts, trade agreements, private initiatives, and cultural exchanges that fostered economic ties between the two countries in changing periods. Throughout the course, students will critically analyze primary and secondary sources, engage in discussions, and prepare a research paper to deepen their understanding of the topic.