1911 TURKESTAN EARTHQUAKE IN WORLD AND OTTOMAN PUBLIC OPINION

Abstract

The earthquake that occurred in Turkistan on 3 January 1911 was one of the most severe earthquakes in the region according to historical records. The 8.2-magnitude earthquake caused extensive damage in the region. Dozens of settlements were affected by the earthquake, while many buildings were either destroyed or damaged by the earthquake. The earthquake cost dozens of lives and left thousands injured. This affect left by the earthquake in the region appeared in both the World Press and the Ottoman press. The issue soon lost its news value for newspapers and magazines that initially provided information to the Ottoman public in the context of information obtained from the World Press. On the other hand, Journal of Sirat-i Mustakim published the news about the earthquake in its columns constantly and invited the Ottoman public to be sensitive to the issue and started a relief campaign for the earthquake victims with its own means. On the other hand, an Aid Commission was established in Bab-i Meshihat for the earthquake victims and a relief campaign was started with the help of the government to meet the necessary needs of the region.