Eastern Question in Europe before 1914 (Ottoman decline, Bal…

Essay Brief Eastern Question (Pre-1914) Topic: The essay analyses the significance of the Eastern Question in Europe before 1914, focusing on Ottoman decline, Balkan nationalism, and the wider impact on European tensions. Current Progress Introduction Completed The introduction is finished and clearly frames the argument about the Eastern Questions importance for European stability before WWI. Only minor stylistic polishing may be needed. Paragraph 1 Needs Major Revision This paragraph exists but lacks sufficient historical evidence (as noted by my tutor). It needs: More specific examples and references. Clear structure (topic sentence evidence analysis link to argument). Stronger connection to why the Eastern Question mattered for Europe. Paragraph 2 Draft Written but Messy This paragraph focuses on nationalism in the Balkans. Key points already included: Rise of nationalism in Europe (French Revolution, German & Italian unification). Balkan identities initially structured by religion rather than nationality. Ottoman millet system and Tanzimat reforms. Churches as organisational spaces for nationalist movements. Russia as protector of Orthodox Christians, later shifting to pan-Slavism. Ottoman decline enabling nationalist mobilisation. Western ideological influence (Romanticism, liberalism). Nation-building examples like the Tarnovo Constitution (1878). Transformation from religious communities to national states. First Balkan War (unity against Ottomans) vs Second Balkan War (national divisions). Main issue: The ideas are good but the paragraph needs clearer structure, smoother sentences, and tighter analysis. Paragraph 3 Not Written This will compare the Eastern Question with other international crises to show why the Balkans were more destabilising. Examples to include: Franco-Prussian War (187071) Fashoda Crisis (1898) First Moroccan Crisis (190506) Second Moroccan Crisis (1911) Main argument: these crises were easier to contain, while Balkan tensions involved multiple Great Powers and risked wider war. Target: ~500 words