BANDITRY AROUND KELKIT AND SHIRAN IN THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE (1760-1916)

Various problems concerning the state and society after the mid-18th century until the collapse of the Ottoman Empire appeared around Shiran and Kelkit Districts. As a result, instances of banditry were recorded in the region from time to time, several reasons for which can be considered. Of these, political, military and economic parameters pertaining to the Ottoman Empire, changes in administrative structures, inadequate number of law-enforcement officers, and territorial geography concerning banditry activities can be emphasized. The Ottoman Empire took military, administrative and judicial precautions to prevent these banditry actions. However, the negative circumstances prevailing in the Ottoman Empire during this period impeded cessation of banditry in the region. This study aims to investigate the nature and impact of banditry around Kelkit and Shiran districts between 1760 and 1916