The Ottoman Security Parameters for the Aegean Sea (Archipelago) and the Levant in the 18th Century

Abstract

The Aegean Sea (Archipelago) and the Levant acomodates many large and small islands and harbours, which were subject to pirate raids due to their location on the maritime trade routes. In this regard the Ottoman State took some measures to secure and sustain this trade. It is possible to sum up the Ottoman strategy against the pirate attacks of the 18th century in the Aegean Sea (Archi- pelago) and the Levant in the following five topics: 1. Recapture of Mora, and occupation of İstendil and Suda; 2. Fortifications built on the islands and at crossings; 3-Regular patrolling of the Ottoman navy and campagins against the pirates; 4. Ümerâ-i Derya (The commanders of the Sea) and Firkateciyân (Firkate owners, who patrol the Sea) Organization; 5. State’s urge of the merchants to use galleons. Ottomans cleary saw themselves as a state dominating the maritime routes, as they created a serious organization to secure the benefits maritime trade, which demanded great expense, and acted accordingly.