Diplomacy
The particular term was used in the context of diplomacy by Western states, as their diplomats were received at the porte (meaning gate). During the constitution period (see Young Turk Revolution), the functions of the Divan were replaced by the imperial government, and "porte" came to refer to the Foreign Ministry. During this period, Grand vizier came to refer to the position of a Prime Minister and viziers became the Ottoman Senate.
The Sublime Porte was the name of the open court of the sultan, led by the Grand Vizier. It got its name from the gate to the headquarters of the Grand Vizier in Topkapı Palace in Istanbul, where the sultan held the greeting ceremony for foreign ambassadors. It was an ancient Ottoman practice to make the gates of cities and kings' palaces places of assembly.
Read more about this topic: Ottoman Porte
Famous quotes containing the word diplomacy:
“There are few ironclad rules of diplomacy but to one there is no exception. When an official reports that talks were useful, it can safely be concluded that nothing was accomplished.”
—John Kenneth Galbraith (b. 1908)
“The policy of dollar diplomacy is one that appeals alike to idealistic humanitarian sentiments, to dictates of sound policy, and strategy, and to legitimate commercial aims.”
—William Howard Taft (1857–1930)
“The diplomacy of the present administration has sought to respond to the modern idea of commercial intercourse. This policy has been characterized as substituting dollars for bullets.”
—William Howard Taft (1857–1930)