At the end of the 18th century, the status quo in the Ottoman Empire was definitely reversed. Powerful Muslim families had gained control over large areas of the Balkans, Asia Minor and North Africa. Small private armies protected their interests and ignored the central powers. At the same time, armed Christian and Muslim groups took advantage of the imperial army's weakness and poor regional administration; they infiltrated vast areas gaining profit and social status. They were often in open war with groups of the same denomination, Muslim toparchs and jannissaries who plagued the central and southern Balkans throughout the 18th century. The leading groups of the Christian communities had gained social and economic advantages, owned loyal army troops and could therefore influence the future.

Thus, at the close of the 18th century, the provinces were no longer under Constantinople's control. The image of the powerful sultan had began to fade, jeopardizing internal stability. New forces were tangled in a battle for power. In time, it became obvious that the restoration of order and stability could only be achieved with guns. Violence reigned, making resistance difficult. Within the nations of southeastern Europe, revolutionary voices had stirred. The Ottoman Empire was obviously entering a hazardous period.