Wow and double wow.
The Ottoman Empire helped the Irish during the Great Famine (1845–1852), a devastating period of mass starvation and disease in Ireland. Here's a summary of their involvement:
Humanitarian Aid: In 1847, Sultan Abdülmecid I of the Ottoman Empire offered to donate £10,000 to help the Irish people. However, due to political sensitivities—especially from the British government—he was reportedly asked to reduce the amount, as Queen Victoria had only given £2,000. The Sultan then sent £1,000 officially.
Additional Support: Beyond the financial aid, Ottoman ships allegedly delivered food and supplies to the Irish port town of Drogheda. While some of these stories are debated by historians, they remain part of local lore and Irish gratitude.
Legacy: This gesture of solidarity is remembered fondly in Ireland. In Drogheda, a plaque commemorates the Ottoman aid, and it has become a symbol of cross-cultural compassion during a time of crisis.
In addition to the monetary donation and the alleged food shipments, the Ottoman Empire’s support during the Irish Great Famine included:
1. Diplomatic Engagement
Sultan Abdülmecid I showed strong interest in helping the Irish people and expressed empathy through diplomatic channels.
He instructed his embassy in London to follow up and coordinate the aid delivery, showing this wasn’t a mere token gesture but a state-level concern.
2. Use of Ottoman Navy Ships (Alleged)
According to Irish oral tradition and local sources in Drogheda, Ottoman ships bypassed British blockades or ports and secretly delivered food aid directly to Irish ports like Drogheda in 1847.
Though historical documentation is limited, a letter from Irish nobleman Lord Drogheda acknowledging the Sultan’s aid is sometimes cited as evidence.
3. Legacy and Commemoration
The connection has been honored in Drogheda, where a plaque commemorates the Sultan's generosity.
A football club in Drogheda United even incorporated the crescent and star of the Ottoman flag into its crest as a tribute.
Irish-Turkish relations have occasionally invoked this event as a foundation of historical friendship.


