The role of waqfs in economic and social development: In the example of Erzurum waqfs (XIX. century-center)

In this study, the social and economic life of Erzurum city center in the 19th century was evaluated through waqfs. In order to comprehend the social and economic structure, the effectiveness of the waqfs in the city was examined in a holistic way. While investigating the social and economic aspects of waqfs, economic history and institutional structures of waqfs were evaluated through the city center of Erzurum by using the methods of waqf economy. It is concluded that the main reason for the economic transformation in Erzurum city center through waqfs is long-term economic growth and the change in the socio-cultural structure in the city. Transformation in religion, in education, in social and cultural fields are examined through waqfs. In this regard, it was determined that from which areas incomes were transferred to and how much shares were allocated from the mutual funds. In this way, the main principles of waqfs whose service purposes were determined could be revealed. It has been seen that the activation of waqfs in the city has a positive effect on the revitalization and economic development of the city in many ways. In general, the developments that took place from the formation of the city of Erzurum to the establishment of waqfs in the city were investigated. In the study, structures such as waqf flows and budgets were examined. Keywords: History of Economics, Waqfs, Erzurum, Economic, Socio-Cultural