Исторически преглед

Издание на Института за исторически изследвания при БАН

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И.Ист.И.

The Ottoman Unit of Measurement “Pair of Oxen”: Continuity and Application

Османската мерна единица чифт волове: континуитет и приложение

Исторически преглед, 81 (2025) No. 1, pp. 122-148 (ISSN 0323-9748)
DOI:

Orlin Sabev / Орлин Събев

Institute of Balkan Studies and Centre of Thracology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences

Abstract: This article examines the origins and application of the Ottoman agro-fiscal unit known as the “pair of oxen.” Its roots can be traced to the agricultural practices and taxation policies of pre-Ottoman societies, including the Byzantine and Seljuk empires, as well as earlier civilizations such as the Roman and ancient Persian societies. Historically, the pair of oxen served as a benchmark for assessing the productive capacity and wealth of farmers, forming the basis for taxation. The author provides examples illustrating that this system persisted in the Bulgarian lands until the very end of Ottoman rule.

Keywords: pair of oxen, agriculture, Ottoman rule, continuity.