Published in 1905, this book is a political proposal disguised as a pamphlet. The 'Eastern Question' was the big, messy problem of what would happen as the Ottoman Empire weakened. Everyone was scrambling for pieces, and war seemed inevitable. The anonymous author steps in with a bold counter-idea: instead of letting the great powers carve it up, why not help the region's peoples form their own cooperative union—an 'Oriental Confederation.'

The Story

There isn't a traditional plot with characters. Instead, the book builds an argument. It starts by diagnosing the problem: European meddling is a poison pill for stability. Then, it outlines a detailed constitution for this proposed confederation, explaining how different ethnic and religious groups could share power, manage defense, and run an economy. It’s a full blueprint for a peaceful Middle East and Balkans that never was.

Why You Should Read It

Reading this is eerie. You see all the tensions of 1905—nationalism, imperialism, religious strife—that still haunt headlines today. The author’s idealism is gripping. They genuinely believed complex problems could be solved with smart, fair institutions. It’s hopeful, but also a bit tragic, knowing the century of conflict that followed. The anonymity adds a layer of intrigue. Was this a forward-thinking scholar? A disillusioned diplomat? The secrecy makes their passionate case even more compelling.

Final Verdict

Perfect for history buffs who love counterfactuals and anyone interested in the roots of modern geopolitics. It’s not a light novel, but it’s surprisingly readable for a 120-year-old political text. If you’ve ever wondered 'what if they’d just tried something different?', this book is your starting point. A short, potent dose of lost potential.