David Urquhart (1805- 1877): The Scottish Defender of the Ottoman Empire

Throughout its history, Scotland has produced many diplomats, travellers, and intellectuals. However, none defended the Ottoman Empire with as much passion as David Urquhart. Born in Scotland in 1805, Urquhart was not only a diplomat, politician, and writer, but also one of the most influential figures in introducing Ottoman culture and politics to the rest of Europe. His story reveals the forgotten ties between Scotland and the Ottoman Empire.

Journey to the Ottoman Empire

Urquhart came to Ottoman lands at a young age and lived in Istanbul for a long time. He was deeply influenced by the Ottoman people’s way of life, hospitality, and daily habits. He opposed the prejudices in the Western world that defined the Ottomans as “backward”. He defended the Ottoman Empire’s strengths in terms of justice, morality, and social order compared to European states.

The Scottish Man Who Brought the Turkish Bath to Scotland

Urquhart’s admiration for the Ottoman Empire left its mark not only in his writings but also in his daily life. The most striking example is the Turkish bath culture he brought to England and Scotland.

As a result of Urquhart’s campaigns, Glasgow opened its first Turkish bath on West Nile Street in 1860. This was not just a health centre, but also a window into Ottoman social life. The Arlington Baths Club, the only Victorian-era Turkish bath still standing in Glasgow today, was founded directly inspired by Urquhart’s work. This venue continues to exist as a tangible reminder of the cultural exchange between the Ottoman Empire and Scotland.

Political Stance: Defender of the Ottoman Empire in the United Kingdom

Urquhart defended the Ottoman Empire not only culturally but also politically. In his view, the Ottoman Empire was the most crucial counterbalance to Russian expansionism in Europe. While serving in the British Parliament, he engaged in fierce debates to defend the rights of the Ottoman Empire. He criticised the policies of other European states that belittled and sought to exploit the Ottoman Empire. Because of this stance, many in British society accused him of being “too pro-Turkish.” However, Urquhart viewed the Ottoman Empire not only through romantic eyes but also as a strategic power in European politics.

Urquhart’s Legacy

David Urquhart, who died in Switzerland in 1877, left behind an important legacy. His writings sought to change the image of the Ottoman Empire in Europe; he brought Turkish bath culture to Scotland; he was a powerful voice against discourses that belittled the Ottoman Empire.

Although his name is not well known today, Urquhart is one of the most special links between Scotland and the Ottoman Empire. Everyone who steps into the Arlington Baths Club in Glasgow actually witnesses a part of his love for the Ottoman Empire and his efforts to build bridges between cultures.

David Urquhart reminds us that history is not just about wars and treaties. Sometimes, the passion of a single individual can forge an unforgettable bond between two lands. A Scotsman defending the Ottoman Empire both politically and culturally is perhaps the strongest bridge between Scotland and the Ottoman Empire.