Understanding Armenian Concentrations in the Ottoman Empire

The Armenian community within the Ottoman Empire was primarily concentrated in three key locations: the capital, Constantinople (now Istanbul), the Antakia and Alexandria region, and the Caucasus area near the Russian frontier. In these regions, Armenians constituted a significant minority, making up 15 to 20% of the population and representing the largest Christian community. Estimates of the Armenian Christian population leading up to World War I vary, with demographers suggesting figures around two million, based on Ottoman census data, although these numbers are subject to debate regarding the extent of loss of life during the ensuing conflicts.