Halil Inalcik, the acknowledged dean of American Ottoman studies, has contributed a stunning new study of economic life of the Black Sea under Ottoman Rule. Caffa was Crimea's most important port and every nationality and religion of the Black Sea littoral resided there. The customs register provides important evidence about the economic activities of these parties, as well as detailed insight into the everyday life of the people of the region. All those interested in the Ottoman period and Black Sea history will find this to be a signal publication.

Halil Inalcik is University Professor Emeritus of Ottoman History at the University of Chicago.