Tarih ve Gelecek Dergisi

Öz

The long-term wars among Ottoman Empire, Iran and Austria to the end of 16th
Century affected the ottomans negatively in terms of military and finance. This situation
which gone on in 17th century caused the internal disorders. Thus, 17th century is seen as
a period in which anarchy reached at the advanced stage throughout the Ottoman Empire.
While The Ottoman Army made effort in order to protect its sovereignty on the western and
eastern front lines in this century, it had to struggle with the domestic rebels. The increase
in the military expenses due to the wars and rebellions which oppressed Anatolia caused
significantly budget deficits. The situation was the same in 18th century. Ottoman Empire
made the expensive campaigns in terms of military in this century, too. Some administrators
who resigned in the authority gap in Anatolia due to the wars revolted and rose against the
state. The brigandage events due to the internal rebellions made disturbance in the security
and peace atmosphere in the various places in Anatolia, and caused a significant danger in
the state.
Within this context, the rebellions and brigandage events that arose in Muş province
together with the cities and villages around it under the leadership of Alaaddin Mütesellim
of Muş in the 18th century became dangerous for the Empire. Alaaddin and his followers
established dominance in many indefensible settlements of the territories of Erzurum, Bitlis,
Van and Muş, and killed many inhabitants who disobey them. The brigand leader who was
getting increased his influence and power day by day constructed many fortresses, pulley
blocks and towers in and around Muş for defence. It was very significant for the Ottoman
Empire to constitute the public order repressing immediately the rebellions and brigandage
events that jeopardised the border security of Ottoman and that abolished the safety of life
and property of the public. That’s why, Guerrilla Abdullah Pasha was authorised to terminate
these bellions and brigandage events. At the result of the war, Alaaddin the brigand leader
and his supporters were defeated and hereby safety and peace could be constituted again.