First Advisor

Jon Mandaville

Term of Graduation

Spring 2001

Date of Publication

6-13-2001

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) in General Social Science

Department

History

Language

English

Subjects

Diplomatic and consular service, American -- Palestine -- History -- 19th century, Consuls -- United States -- History -- 19th century, Jerusalem -- History -- 19th century

Physical Description

1 online resource (v, 129 pages)

Abstract

The Europeans were the first ones to establish Consuls at Jerusalem. They used their consular offices to establish permanence and extend their influence in the region. Under the guise of citizen and religious protection they extended their power and influence in the Ottoman territory. The United States established its consulate in Jerusalem in 1853. In comparison with the European consuls the American Service was-new, inexperienced, and lacking professionalism. This American outpost was plagued with complexities that were distinct to the office at Jerusalem. The consul reports from 1856-1896 reflect the mission and difficulties faced at this seemingly remote outpost.

Limited by vague guidelines and minimal training the consular officers attempted to represent American commercial and political interest. Their mission was plagued by extremely difficult physical condition, poor market prospects for American products, an awkward Ottoman economic structure, and the social dilemmas associated with the poor inhabitants of Jerusalem, and immigration of Jews and religious groups. Immersed in eschatological beliefs they believed that they could help usher in a new religious period. Their failed attempts left the consul officers in the predicament of trying to balance support and protection for all Americans, residing in Palestine, and cleaning up the economic messes left behind.

The men who occupied the post at Jerusalem used their post to pursue personal interest or launch their careers. They found themselves frustrated by the confines of an under-supported insignificant post. Not surprisingly their tenure was short and their legacy lacking in continuity.

The correspondence written by these men give the reader insight into the 19th century world of Palestine and the American Foreign Service. The reports lack direction, adding only brief summaries while the latter reports summarize physical statistics, crop yields, labor wages, and potential investments for American business. These reports mimic the changes happening in American diplomatic service and at the same time demonstrate the unique aspect of consul service as seen in Palestine during the 19th Century.

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Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/44855

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