Student Question
Why did the Ottoman Empire ally with Germany in WWI?
Quick answer:
The Ottoman Empire allied with Germany in World War I primarily due to strained relations with the Allied Powers, particularly Russia, which sought control of the Dardanelles, a strategic area under Ottoman control. Additionally, the Ottomans perceived early German victories as an indication of eventual German success, hoping to expand their empire by siding with the Central Powers. Thus, their decision was driven by both geopolitical tensions and aspirations for territorial gain.
There were two major reasons for this.
First, the Ottomans had had fairly shaky relations with the Allied Powers. This was especially true with regard to Russia. Russia had a strategic interest in controlling the Dardanelles and its desire to do so led to conflict with the Ottomans since the Dardanelles were in their territory. Since the Ottomans did not have great relations with Britain or France, they were inclined to side with the Germans.
Second, the Ottomans thought that German victories early in the war meant that Germany would win. They thought that if they got into the war on Germany's side they would be able to gain new territories for their empire after the Central Powers won the war.
So, the Ottoman decision to enter the war was based partly on a desire for more power and partly on the enmity between the Ottoman Empire and Russia.
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