Julia Kohn

Hello everyone! My name is Julia Kohn and I am currently a sophomore studying Integrated Marketing and communications with a minor in Communication Management and Design. Though my major has no relation to this class, I find it important to be a well rounded-person. I am Jewish myself and took this class to understand the history of my culture and religion. I am currently looking into birthright programs and wanted to learn more before I leave. As far as my spare time is concerned, when I'm not doing school work,  I am working as a Special Event Manager for Campus Center Events and Services. If you see me working one of your events don't be afraid to say hi. :)

What was the Millet system?
 The millet system was a policy put in place by the Ottomans. It said that the minorities (the Christians and Jews) would be recognized as a separate nation. This meant that these religious groups would have full control over religion and law within their communities. The Ottoman's ruled with a Muslim influence, yet with so many other religious groups living within their empire they were  obligated to remain tolerant; never once did the Turks force their religion on others. Within the millet system, Christians and Jews had complete religious freedom and were even able to pray in their own synagogs or churches.  The Millet system also delegated each national community the responsibility to their own courts, schools and welfare system and to maintain roads, water fountains and communal buildings for the community. To conserve order between these communities, Muslims were not allowed to convert to other religions and vice-versa. This was to ensure that the Ottoman Empire remained Islamic. The millet system allowed the Jews to have a cultural identity and feel secure within the empire.