Page "History of the Jews in Turkey" Paragraph 17

During the Classical Ottoman period ( 1300 – 1600 ), the Jews, together with most other communities of the empire, enjoyed a certain level of prosperity.

Compared with other Ottoman subjects, they were the predominant power in commerce and trade as well in diplomacy and other high offices.

In the 16th century especially, the Jews were the most prominent under the millets, the apogee of Jewish influence could arguable be the appointment of Joseph Nasi to Sanjak-bey ( governor, a rank usually only bestowed upon Muslims ) of the island of Naxos.

Also in the first half of the 17th century the Jews were distinct in winning Tax farms, Haim Gerber describes it as: " My impression is that no pressure existed, that it was merely performαnce