Ottoman Harem's Secret Influence on Trade

In this episode of The Harem Politics of the Ottoman Empire, Lucas and Luna explore how the women of the Ottoman imperial harem shaped the empire's trade and economy. From Hürrem Sultan's investments in the spice trade to Nurbanu Sultan's diplomatic trade agreements with Venice, and Kösem Sultan's control over customs revenues, the harem wielded significant economic power. Learn how valide sultans and hasekis used their personal fortunes (khass) to fund caravans, build caravanserais, and influence tax policies. Discover the role of Jewish and Armenian female merchants who acted as intermediaries between the harem and the bazaars. This episode uncovers the hidden economic empire of the Ottoman women, drawing on archival records like the Topkapi Palace treasury registers and the Başbakanlık Osmanlı Arşivi. A must-listen for anyone interested in Ottoman economic history, women's history, and the intersection of power and commerce. #OttomanEmpire #HaremPolitics #WomenInHistory #TradeHistory #OttomanEconomy #HürremSultan #NurbanuSultan #KösemSultan #ValideSultan #SpiceTrade #VenetianTrade #Caravanserai #Vakıf #TopkapiPalace #EconomicHistory #SultanateOfWomen #FexingoHistory #History Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo