Abstract:

In this study, temporary school holidays in Ottoman State due to some reasons at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century are discussed. Sources of the study are the documents on the subject in Ottoman Archive and second-hand sources. Among the reasons that cause school holidays are disasters such as extreme hot and cold weather, rain, storm, fire and earthquake. In addition, wars, riots, unlicensed schools, repaired made in schools, unpaid teachers’ salaries and teacher attitudes are among the reasons for schools’ holidays. In the study, first of all, information about the ordinary school holidays in Ottoman Empire and then the temporary school holidays made for the reasons mentioned above were discussed. In the study, what kind of process is followed in the closure of schools, what kind of actions should be taken by teachers and school principals, the attitude of local administrations and the Ministry of Education towards the issue; the role of doctors and medical communities in the holiday of schools, disinfection procedures carried out by municipal officials in schools where epidemics were experienced were tried to be put forth in the light of documents.

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