COGRAPHY EDUCATION IN THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE

Abstract

This study provides an overview of geography education in the Ottoman Empire's educational institutions. It explores the development of geography in Ottoman territories, the evolutionary changes it underwent during different periods, and the transformations in geography education across those periods. The first section examines the pioneers of Ottoman geography studies and their works. These geographers primarily explored Ottoman lands and the world through travel accounts and maps. The second section focuses on geography education in the Ottoman Empire, categorized by different periods. The Tanzimat era marked a period of significant changes in Ottoman educati systems, including the restructuring of geography educations, the developmenty of new curricula, and the incorporation of principles from modern geography into educational programs. The Second Constitutional Era (Meşrutiyet) witnessed important advancements in primary education, with compulsory and free primary education being established. However, there was a decline in secondary education during this period. The study also examines notable geographers and their works in each era. These geographers conducted geographical explorations in Ottoman territories, delving into topics such as local culture, natural resources, and climate, and published their findings in travel accounts and geography books. In conclusion, geography education in the Ottoman Empire's educational institutions underwent a diverse developmental process across different periods. While the importance and methodologies of geography varied, it consistently held a significant place in Ottoman territories. This study sheds light on the progress made in Ottoman geography education, the influences of different eras, and the contributions of geographers, providing a glimpse into the world of Ottoman geography literature.