Demographic assessment of Edirne province, Edirne liva, Dimetoka district according to population book no. 4217

This study examines the demographic structure of the Dimetoka district, which was part of the Edirne Province of the Ottoman Empire in the mid-19th century, based on Population Register No. 4217. Dimetoka held significant historical importance due to its strategic location and its role as one of the earliest key centers in Ottoman Rumelia. The primary objective of the thesis is to conduct a micro-level analysis of the social structure of the region by evaluating variables such as age groups, occupational distribution, military status, educational background, physical characteristics, and migration patterns of the male population in 44 villages and 2 neighborhoods of Dimetoka. To this end, qualitative data analysis was applied to the population records, and the findings were supported by tables. The register in question covers the years Rumi 1260–1269 (Gregorian 1844–1853). One of the most striking findings of the study is that the majority of the population were engaged in farming. In addition, information on military service, education, and health was also recorded. The inclusion of physical descriptions, nicknames, and certain health notes related to individuals enhances the value of the register, transforming it from a mere population list into a rich source for social history. In conclusion, this thesis offers an original and comprehensive analysis of the demographic data contained in Population Register No. 4217 from the Dimetoka district. Keywords: Didymoteicho, Demographic Structure, Population Register