The perspective of European states on the proclamation of the second constitutional era according to İkdam newspaper (1908–1909)

This study explores the perspectives of European states on the proclamation of the Second Constitutional Era in 1908, as reflected in the news and commentaries published in İkdam newspaper. The proclamation of the Second Constitutional Era on July 24, 1908, in the Ottoman Empire had profound repercussions not only on domestic political dynamics but also on international relations. European states interpreted this development within the framework of their own political interests, their bilateral relations with the Ottoman Empire, and the broader regional balance of power. For this research, the issues of İkdam newspaper published between 1908 and 1909 were systematically examined. News reports and articles concerning prominent European states of the period—such as Britain, France, Germany, Austria-Hungary, Russia, and Italy—were analyzed through a qualitative research method. The data were assessed using both historical analysis and content analysis techniques. The findings reveal that European states’ approaches toward the Second Constitutional Era were largely shaped by their diplomatic and economic interests. Moreover, İkdam newspaper conveyed these perspectives to the Ottoman public through both its reporting style and editorial commentaries. Thus, this study contributes to the literature on Ottoman press history and international relations during the Second Constitutional Era.