Ottoman-French relations 1740-1789 (according to the consulate petitions)

Ottoman-French political and diplomatic relationships at 18th century became more important in the areas of economy, culture and more importantly trade. The basis for the relationship was the consulates appointed in the Ottoman State and the capitulations given to the French by Ottoman Sultans. The main aim and duty of the consulates who were appointed to the harbors and seaports outside of Istanbul were to protect interests, rights and properties of the citizens of their home countries, and to make sure that rights and privileges derived from the capitulations were protected.The aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between Ottoman Empire and France according to the request letters of consulates given to the Ambassadors and Kadis, and their replies to the petitions. The information about social, cultural, religious, commercial and economical developments found in these requests and replies petitions to the Ottoman point of view towards France, and therefore the Europa. This study also includes the solutions provided by Ottomans which were the basis for the capitulations to the problems presented by the consulates. In the end, the privileges given to the sub-cultures and societies to meet their needs by the central government by fermans are an indication of sensitivity for human rights more than consensus culture.Key Words: France, Consulate, Ambassador, Trade, Capitulations.