Sultan Abdul Hamid II, often remembered for the massacre of Armenians in the 1890s and as one of the most controversial Ottoman rulers, was paradoxically nicknamed “the Armenian” by his detractors. This moniker was supposedly derived from his physical appearance, which some claimed bore resemblance to Armenian features, despite his mother being of Circassian descent.
The Circassian Mother and Armenian Resemblance
The Sultan’s mother, Tirimüjgan Kadın, was indeed Circassian, not Armenian. Yet, the nickname “the Armenian” was used by his Turkish enemies, who insinuated that his dark, melancholic looks must have been inherited from an Armenian lineage. Some even went as far as to speculate about his paternity, suggesting an Armenian influence there as well.
The Ironic Accusation
The irony of this accusation is stark, considering Sultan Abdul Hamid II’s infamous reputation as the orchestrator of the brutal massacres against the Armenian population, which later came to be known as the Hamidian massacres. The suggestion that he himself might have Armenian ancestry stands in stark contrast to his actions as a ruler.
Financial Knowledge from an Armenian Banker
Despite being viewed as an incompetent ruler in many respects, Abdul Hamid II was knowledgeable about finance, a skill he acquired from an Armenian banker responsible for managing his personal wealth. This detail adds another layer of irony to his complex relationship with the Armenian community.
The story of Sultan Abdul Hamid II is rife with contradictions and ironies. His nickname, “the Armenian,” and his financial education from an Armenian banker juxtapose sharply with his role in the Armenian massacres. These historical anecdotes reflect the multifaceted and often paradoxical nature of his reign and legacy.
For those interested in the life and times of Sultan Abdul Hamid II, including the nuances of his relationship with the Armenian community and his financial dealings, further reading can be found in historical records and scholarly articles.
