Intellectual Figures in Post-Tanzimat Social Change: The Example of Ahmet Cevdet Pasha and His Granddaughter Sister Zubeyde Ismet

Abstract

The Tanzimat Period refers to the era spanning from the proclamation of the Gülhane Hatt-ı Hümayun on November 3, 1839, to 1876. Initiated in 1839 under the leadership of Reshid Pasha, the Tanzimat Period concluded in 1876 with the transition to a constitutional regime led by Midhat Pasha. Etymologically, Tanzimat denotes a comprehensive restructuring and transformation of the Ottoman administrative, political, social, and economic life. Ahmed Cevdet Pasha, a prominent figure of the 19th-century Ottoman Empire, made substantial contributions to the realms of administration, politics, culture, and scholarship. This study aims to examine Ahmed Cevdet Pasha, his family life, and the transformation of his granddaughter, Sister Zubeyde İsmet, within the context of the modernization process influenced by the Tanzimat period. The research employs a qualitative research method, specifically document analysis. The Ottoman Empire, having fallen behind the West in numerous areas, particularly in the military, sought to emulate the West, perceived as more advanced. This emulation extended beyond the military realm. With the Tanzimat reforms, Ottoman elites, including statesmen and intellectuals, sent their children to Western missionary schools. These Ottoman offspring were culturally assimilated and indoctrinated to serve the interests of Western Christianization. Consequently, this process of emulation evolved into cultural imperialism. As a result of this cultural imperialism, the granddaughter of Ahmet Cevdet Pasha converted to Christianity and became a nun. Zubeyde İsmet's transformation highlights the significance of the education system; regardless of an individual's adherence to their own religion, culture, and family, the educational system of the state and society in which they live will determine the fate of their generation.