Ottoman Constitution of 1876 promulgated, ending the Tanzimat

Background. The Tanzimat was a period of Ottoman reforms beginning with the Edict of Gülhane of 1839 and ending with the First Constitutional Era in 1876. The reforms peaked in 1876 with the implementation of a constitution checking the autocratic powers of the Sultan. Sultan Abdulaziz's chaotic rule led to his deposition in 1876, and after a few troubled months the constitution was proclaimed; the new sultan, Abdul Hamid II, pledged to uphold it. Many historians regard the First Constitutional Era as the end of the Tanzimat, even though reform continued uninterrupted at its end in 1878.

Drafting and Authorship. The constitution was written by members of the Young Ottomans, particularly Midhat Pasha, who chaired the constitutional committee. It was influenced by the Armenian National Constitution and drawn up by Krikor Odian, an advisor to Midhat Pasha. The document established subjects as 'Ottomans' rather than 'Turks,' reflecting the Nationality Law of 1869.

Promulgation and Political Context. After strenuous debates, a constitution acceptable to all sides was established and signed by Abdul Hamid II on the morning of 13 December 1876. Midhat Pasha, appointed Grand Vizier on 19 December 1876, announced on 23 December 1876 that a constitution would be promulgated and a representative parliament established. According to Strauss, the authorities apparently prepared multiple language versions simultaneously, with a publication year of 1876.