nov 8, 1857 - Imperial Rescript

Description:

Part of the Tanzimat, passed by Sultan Abdul Mejid

- equality before the law
- modernized admin and military
- religious freedom for all
- free importation of foreign goods
- foreign merchants could operate freely throughout the empire
- western secular education embraced by elites

Actually increased religious disputes
- distracted govmnt
- split Muslims into secularists and conservatives

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