It is almost impossible to describe exactly the wealth and methods of profit used by these powerful governors to enrich themselves. A Turk, as described by writers of that age, was considered quick to seek wealth and eager to grow rich. Their ways of gaining money were many, clever, and often hidden. Still, it is useful to set down clearly the certain and lawful revenues that were officially granted to them by commission from the Grand Signior.
These fixed revenues were assigned to them from the cities, towns, and lands under their rule. The money was collected locally and formed the legal income of their office. Beyond this, however, many other profits flowed into their hands Istanbul Private Tours.
Lawful and Customary Sources of Income
In addition to their regular income, governors enjoyed the benefit of several traditional rights. These included the profits from lost and unclaimed property, goods taken from criminals, and possessions that had no clear owner because of death or accident. They also gained from the sale of slaves, horses, and cattle that were left without masters.
Another source of income came from vacant church offices, which in some provinces were sold or assigned under the authority of the governor. All these revenues were accepted as part of the customary privileges of power and were rarely questioned.
Abuses of Power and False Accusations
Yet, beyond these lawful gains, many governors increased their wealth through unjust and corrupt practices. One common abuse was the use of false accusations, sometimes called “avantas,” by which they attacked the property and rights of their own subjects. Under the appearance of justice, they seized lands and goods for their personal benefit.
Even worse, some governors allowed or ordered their slaves and servants to rob travelers and local people. After the robbery, they pretended to investigate the crime. The innocent victims were then arrested, imprisoned, tortured, or even put to death, while the true offenders escaped punishment. In this way, justice itself became a tool for oppression.
The Beglerbegs of the First Rank
To speak more precisely, the Beglerbegs of the first class were twenty-two in number. Each of these governors ruled large provinces and received their assigned revenues directly from the lands they governed. These revenues were collected by their own officers, acting under commissions granted by the Sultan himself.
Because of their distance from the central court and the power entrusted to them, these governors often ruled almost like kings in their own territories. This made oversight difficult and abuse common.
Consequences of Such Power
Such unchecked authority brought great wealth to many, but it also caused fear and suffering among the people. While some governors ruled with fairness, others used their office as a means of personal enrichment. This system explains both the great riches and the great dangers connected with high office in the Ottoman Empire.