The deposition of Sultan Abdülaziz marked a significant turning point in the history of the Ottoman Empire. Abdülaziz ascended to the throne in 1861 but faced numerous challenges, including fiscal deficits, a declining military, and growing discontent among the populace and political elites. The empire was experiencing pressures from modernization efforts and the desire for reform, which Abdülaziz struggled to implement effectively. His administration's inability to address pressing issues, compounded by extravagant spending and political repression, led to increasing unrest.

On May 30, 1876, a group of military officers and politicians led a coup d'état. Driven by the urgent desire for reform, they deposed Abdülaziz and declared his nephew Murad V as the new sultan. The coup was marked by relatively little violence, though it showcased the deep divisions within the ruling class and military regarding the future of the empire. Murad V, known for his reformist ideas, was seen as a more suitable figure to lead the empire toward modernization and stability. However, his reign would ultimately be short-lived due to mental health issues.

Abdülaziz was placed under house arrest following his deposition, and he reportedly faced a tragic fate that remains shrouded in mystery. His death, ruled a suicide by some historians, raised further questions about the political climate and the treatment of dethroned sultans. This transition of power illustrated the fragile nature of the Ottoman government during a time of potential upheaval and reform, symbolizing the ongoing struggle between tradition and modernity in the empire.