1770

The Crimean Tartars switch sides to conclude an anti-Ottoman alliance with Russia.

1773

Cin-Ali Bey, who had proclaimed himself sultan of Egypt, is defeated in battle, and his rebellion crushed. Nevertheless, esraf and ayan (newly crystallizing dynasties of provincial notables) are on the move throughout the empire.

1774

Disastrous Treaty of Kucuk Kainardji with Russia.

1776

American Declaration of Independence.

1779

Russia annexes Crimea.

1782

A fire in Istanbul lasts 50 hours.

1789

Selim III, a dedicated reformer, ascends the throne in the same year as the French Revolution. Some of his social experiments are inpired by the same democratic ideologies which motivated the French.

1790

Ottoman-Prussian alliance against Austria and Russia.

1798

Napoleon's Egyptian expedition becomes stranded after Nelson destroys the French fleet at the battle of the Nile. Napoleon advances into Syria, but is forced to retreat the next year in the face of determined Ottoman resistance.

1799-1815

Napoleon Bonaparte reshapes map of continental Europe.

1807

The British navy attempts to force the Straits; the Ottoman government declares war on both Britain and Russia.

1808

An Istanbul revolt instigated by conservative elements within the ruling elite and led by Kabakci Mustafa, a man of the urban underclass, dethrones Selim III. The sultan first is imprisoned and later killed when an army of provincial reformers led by Alemdar Mustafa Pasa advences on the capital to rescue the Sultan. Alemdar, nevertheless, succeds in overthrowing Mustafa IV and putting Mahmud II on the throne.

1815

Congress of Vienna.