Transcription and evaluation of Mühimme Book number 147 (P.157-310)

The Ottoman Empire; a vast empire that ruled over three continents, including Asia, Europe, and Africa, and gave rise to nearly thirty states within its geography. Over centuries, the carefully crafted archives contain documents that shed light on the culture, economy, social, and political histories of numerous states under Ottoman rule, such as the Balkans, Crimea, Caucasus, Middle East, Arabian Peninsula, Mediterranean Islands, and North Africa. These archives serve as primary sources for demonstrating and preserving international rights and have become essential for researching and learning the history of many nations. One of the most significant historical sources is the "Mühimme Defterleri" (Important Records), in which crucial decisions related to political, judicial, economic, cultural, social, and military aspects of the state were recorded following the Divan-ı Hümayun (Imperial Council). The "Mühimme Defterleri" spans from the mid-16th century to the early 20th century, except for some short periods, and contains records of unparalleled richness that are not found in any other state's records. These records hold great importance for the history of many states that emerged from the Ottoman Empire. In this study, after providing information about the Imperial Council, the "Mühimme Defterleri," and the reign of Sultan Mahmut I, the focus is on the transcription and evaluation of the rulings found in pages 156 to 310 of the "147 Numaralı Mühimme Defteri" (147th Important Records Book). This particular record, covering the years 1152-1153 (1739-1740) in the Ottoman Empire, offers significant information about various developments. Notably, it covers diplomatic negotiations following lengthy wars between the Ottoman Empire, Iran, Austria, and Russia in 1739, along with provisions related to banditry movements, administrative changes, procurement and transportation of provisions, tax collection, and ensuring the safety of pilgrims' journeys.