The Ottoman-Senusiyyah relations

Abstract

The Ottoman-Senussi Relations: Dynamics of Reform and Cooperation in the 19th and Early 20th Centuries Background: The 19th century witnessed significant transformations in the Ottoman Empire and North Africa, marked by internal decline and growing European colonial ambitions. In this context, the Senussi Movement emerged as a prominent Islamic reformist order in Cyrenaica, Libya, under the leadership of Imam Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Senussi (1844). The movement played a vital role in uniting Muslim tribes and resisting colonial encroachment. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the nature of the relationship between the Ottoman Empire and the Senussi Movement, highlighting the interplay of political, religious, and social factors that shaped their interactions amidst external pressures. Methodology: The research adopts a historical-analytical approach, utilizing primary sources and secondary literature to examine archival records, diplomatic correspondence, and scholarly interpretations of Ottoman-Senussi relations. Results: The findings indicate that the relationship was characterized by cautious cooperation and occasional tension. The Ottoman Empire, though wary of the movement’s independence and its emphasis on Qurayshi lineage for the Caliphate, ultimately recognized the Senussi Order and granted it privileges such as tax exemptions. Conversely, the Senussi leadership avoided direct confrontation with Ottoman authorities while establishing a network of religious and social institutions across North Africa and the Sahara. Conclusion:The Ottoman-Senussi relationship reflects a pragmatic alliance in the face of shared threats, particularly European colonial expansion. The Senussi Movement’s reformist vision complemented Ottoman efforts to preserve Islamic unity, resulting in a complex yet constructive interaction that shaped the sociopolitical landscape of the region.