An analysis of policies towards the born disabled, victims of work accidents and natural disasters during the Hamidian era (1876-1909)

Abstract

This thesis is the first attempt in analyzing the various situations in which the born disabled, the victims of work accidents and the earthquake victims were protected within the institutional and personal networks of the Hamidian administration. Abdülhamid II invested in the institutionalization of education of the born disabled and the creation of pension funds, which created standardized rights and benefits for the victims of work accidents. Thus, one should evaluate the institutionalization efforts of Abdülhamid II in terms of their ability to create standardized services to the Ottoman public. The charity, philanthropy and welfare projects of Abdülhamid II cannot be considered without taking the political sphere into account. After the constitutionalist opposition attained a political organization in 1890, Abdülhamid II began to pursue a policy that emphasized charity and welfare projects in order to increase his popularity. Abdülhamid II created an inclusive welfare system by financing philanthropic projects and modern social institutions. In conclusion, Abdülhamid II narrowed the gap that existed between him and the poor and the needy during the reign of his predecessors by responding to their needs immediately through organized practices. Through these practices and institutions, he presented himself as the protector of the poor and the needy and legitimized his rule, which was leaning on the autocratic.