Treaty of Adrianople: What Happened
On 14 September 1829, Russia and the Ottoman Empire signed the Treaty of Adrianople, modern Edirne, ending the Russo-Turkish War of 1828 to 1829. After the destruction of the Ottoman fleet at Navarino, the Ottoman sultan had declared a holy war against Russia, and Russia responded by invading the Ottoman Empire. Russian armies advanced across the Balkans and captured Adrianople, only about 250 kilometers from Constantinople, forcing the Ottomans to seek peace. Under the treaty, Russia gained territory at the mouth of the Danube and in the Caucasus, and Russian merchant ships received free passage through the Bosporus and Dardanelles. The treaty also mattered greatly for Greece. The Ottoman Empire agreed to accept the decisions of the London Conference of Britain, France and Russia on the future of Greece, effectively accepting Greek autonomy. It also granted autonomy to Serbia and strengthened the self-government of the Danubian principalities. The treaty marked the practical end of Ottoman resistance to an independent Greek state, which was formally recognized in the London Protocol of 1830.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Treaty of Adrianople?
The Treaty of Adrianople, signed on 14 September 1829, ended the Russo-Turkish War of 1828 to 1829, which Russia won decisively.
How did the Treaty of Adrianople affect Greece?
The Ottoman Empire agreed to accept the decisions of Britain, France and Russia on Greece's future, effectively accepting Greek autonomy.
Where is Adrianople?
Adrianople is the modern city of Edirne in European Turkey, near the borders with Greece and Bulgaria. It was once the Ottoman capital.
What did Russia gain from the treaty?
Russia gained territory at the mouth of the Danube and in the Caucasus, and its merchant ships received free passage through the Straits.
What other countries benefited from the treaty?
The treaty granted autonomy to Serbia and strengthened the self-government of the Danubian principalities, modern Romania.
More Events from Greek War of Independence
