Tolerance in the Ottoman Empire: The Jewish Experience
History is something I take an interest in, not just during the term time, but outside of it too. Over the summer I had the pleasure of staying in Cumbria for a while and here I read Diana Darke's fantastic book on the Ottoman empire. In light of the intolerant society I feel is developing today, this book reminded me of how immigrants enrich societies and inspired me to explore how historical lessons can inform our present. Perhaps you’ll find the historical lessons as fascinating as I did. _____________________________ The Ottoman Empire controlled vast swathes of Southern Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa between the 13th and 20th centuries. Its impact has been enduring on aspects of culture, but what is most fascinating to me is its openness to immigration. Those living in modern society will be aware of the increasingly intolerant society we have come to inhabit. So, this week, I take a step back to examine how the Ottoman Empire fostered a culture of inclusion for Jewish...