What is Levantine

The term "Levantine" was used during the Ottoman Empire to describe Europeans who came from Western Europe and settled in port cities like Istanbul and Izmir. This community played a significant cultural and economic role in the Ottoman Empire starting from the 17th century.

Origin of the Term "Levantine"

The word "Levantine" comes from the French word "levantin," which is derived from the Italian word "levante," meaning "east." In Europe, the term "Levant" was used to describe the eastern shores of the Mediterranean, including Ottoman territories, and over time, "Levantine" came to refer to Europeans living in these regions. Levantines were typically Catholic or Protestant, with roots primarily in Italy, France, England, and the Netherlands.

Historical Formation of the Levantines

The arrival of Levantines in the Ottoman Empire dates back to the 16th century. To strengthen trade relations with Europe, the Ottoman Empire granted various privileges (capitulations), which attracted many merchants, diplomats, and artisans from Western Europe. Cities like Izmir and Istanbul became key settlements for these merchants. During this time, Izmir evolved into an international trade hub, with Levantines forming a significant community there.

Occupations of the Levantines

Levantines played a crucial role in trade and industry within the Ottoman Empire. Engaging primarily in import and export, they were influential in sectors like maritime trade, banking, and insurance. Levantines in Izmir were especially prominent in the trade of agricultural products like tobacco, dried figs, and raisins. Additionally, they served as cultural and economic bridges between Western Europe and the Ottoman Empire, facilitating the introduction of Western culture and fashion into the empire.

Important Contributions and Impact

Levantines significantly contributed to the development of industry and trade in the Ottoman Empire. For example, they played a major role in establishing the first modern factories in Izmir in the mid-19th century. Levantines in Izmir were also key figures in the city’s cultural life, introducing Western-style entertainment such as theater and opera.

The presence of Levantines in the Ottoman Empire continued for some time after the establishment of the Republic of Turkey. However, many Levantine families left Turkey due to economic and political reasons from the mid-20th century onwards.

The Levantines were a community that left a significant cultural and economic mark on the Ottoman Empire. They acted as a bridge between Western Europe and the Ottoman Empire, contributing to trade, industry, and culture. Considering the origins of the term, their historical development, and their impact, Levantines played a key role in the modernization of the Ottoman Empire and in its relations with the West.