Dictatorship and Decline
Many historians and citizens criticize Abdulhamid II’s reign for:
Authoritarianism: The 1878 suspension of the constitution and parliament, ruling via censorship and spies
Heavy surveillance and suppression of dissent (especially against reformists)
Massive territorial losses, such as:
Cyprus (to Britain, 1878)
Tunisia (to France, 1881)
Egypt (to Britain, 1882)
Kars, Ardahan, Batumi (to Russia, 1878)
Later, under his weakening rule, increasing control lost in the Balkans
Blocking of internal reform movements, such as those led by the Young Turks
So, it’s valid to see his legacy as mixed or even damaging depending on your historical lens.
How to Think About It Historically
Both views can be partially valid — here's a neutral framing:
Positive Legacy Negative Legacy
Pan-Islamic unity vs colonial powers Repression of minorities & intellectuals
Strong state centralization Suspended democracy, ruled autocratically
Infrastructure investments (railways, etc.) Massive territorial loss under his reign
Created a “police state” culture
In a Conclusion
It’s okay — and even important — to disagree with a book’s glorification of Abdulhamid II, especially if you believe the historical evidence shows dictatorship and national loss. Critical reading means recognizing how a story is told, and why — and balancing it with facts and perspective.