Ottoman Centralization and Governance of the Damascus Eyalet

In 1810, Sulayman Pasha al-Adil was appointed to the Damascus Eyalet, overseeing a significant portion of Ottoman Syria. His administration marked a notable shift in governance, focusing on balancing central authority with local autonomy, contrasting sharply with the more violent tactics employed by his predecessor, Jazzar Pasha. During his tenure, Sulayman successfully annexed the sanjaks of Latakia, Tripoli, and Gaza to the Sidon Eyalet, enhancing the administrative reach of the Ottoman Empire in the region. However, his rule was not without challenges; in 1817, a civil war erupted in Jabal Nablus between the Tuqan family and a coalition of other influential families. Demonstrating diplomatic acumen, Sulayman mediated the conflict, leading to a temporary peace in 1818. His efforts to engage with local leaders, such as Musa Bey Tuqan, reflected a strategic approach to governance that prioritized stability and cooperation over conflict. Sulayman's tenure, though brief, left a lasting impact on the political landscape of Ottoman Syria, setting a precedent for future administrations.