Jaffa, the Port of Palestine in the Last Quarter of 19th Century: A Center of Conflict and Rivalry

Abstract

Jaffa, a tiny and backward city on the coast of Palestine at the beginning of 19th century, underwent an intense process of change and became the main port of the country. The increase in urban population, the change in urban structure and economic functions are the indicators of this process. It is very significant that the same process includes some chaotic developments. The urban development in Jaffa leads to a conflict over urban property and in regard with the urban politics and government, a fierce rivalry among the urban dwellers. As much as the urban development in Jaffa, the conflict and rivalry among the urban dwellers, the role of Ottoman government in dealing with this process is undoubtedly an issue that should be taken into consideration and analyzed.