Gertrude Bell’in Seyahat Ağları: Bir Tarihsel Ağ Anlatısı

Abstract

This thesis aims to analyze and visualize the social relationships established by Gertrude Bell during her travels using digital tools, with the objective of constructing a Historical Network Narrative based on this data. Bell, who played an influential role in shaping Iraq’s modern political structure, has frequently been depicted as an agent of British intelligence due to her extensive travels in the region. The extensive and complex nature of her archival records presents a challenge for comprehensive analysis, allowing for the possibility of speculative interpretations. Nevertheless, these archives present a wealth of opportunities for digital history research. This study employs a multidisciplinary approach integrating network analysis, geographical information systems and historical narrative to reconstruct her social relationships and travel networks. The findings reveal a marked evolution in Bell’s travels, transitioning from family vacations and leisure tours to multifaceted efforts encompassing scientific research, social observation, and intellectual exploration. She generally supported the reforms of the Second Constitutional Era and developed strong relationships with Ottoman bureaucrats and intellectuals. However, the instability of the final years of the Ottoman Empire and the tragic deaths of bureaucrats in her close circle weakened her emotional ties with the Ottoman administration. This narrative diverges significantly from common perceptions of Gertrude Bell and offers an innovative framework for exploring the social networks and cultural interactions of other historical figures.