The Kalabalik or Tumult in Bendery results from the Ottoman sultan's order that his unwelcome guest, King Charles XII of Sweden, be seized.

The Skirmish at Bender: An Unexpected Climax to Royal Exile

The Skirmish at Bender, known in Swedish as Kalabaliken i Bender and in Finnish as Benderin kalabaliikki, was a dramatic and highly unusual confrontation. This singular event, designed to compel King Charles XII of Sweden to depart from the Ottoman Empire, unfolded on 1 February 1713. It occurred on territory then under Ottoman dominion, specifically in what is now the bustling town of Bender, situated within modern-day Moldova.

Charles XII's Tumultuous Exile in the Ottoman Empire

To fully grasp the context of the Skirmish at Bender, one must look back to the Great Northern War (1700–1721), a protracted conflict that reshaped the geopolitical landscape of Northern Europe. Charles XII, often referred to as the "Lion of the North," had led the Swedish Empire to initial military successes. However, his ambitions met a catastrophic end at the Battle of Poltava in July 1709, where his forces suffered a decisive defeat at the hands of Peter the Great's burgeoning Russian army. After this devastating loss, the Swedish king, along with a dwindling retinue of loyalists, sought refuge in the Ottoman Empire. He established his court-in-exile near Bender, in the village of Varnitsa, a strategic location in what was then known as Bessarabia. For over four years, Charles XII tirelessly, though fruitlessly, sought to persuade the Ottoman Sultan Ahmed III to declare war on Russia, hoping to reignite his campaign and restore Swedish power.

The Ottoman Dilemma and the Stubborn King's Refusal

While Charles XII was initially received with hospitality, his extended stay and persistent demands eventually became a significant burden and source of exasperation for the Ottoman Sublime Porte. His presence was not only costly, draining the imperial treasury, but also a constant source of diplomatic friction with the Russian Empire and other European powers. The Ottomans had their own complex geopolitical interests and sought to maintain a delicate balance of power without being drawn into another costly war primarily for Sweden's benefit. Consequently, they repeatedly urged Charles XII to leave their territory peacefully and return to Sweden. However, the proud and resolute king steadfastly refused, unwilling to depart without a guarantee of safe passage through hostile European territories or a renewed Ottoman commitment to his cause. His obduracy ultimately forced the Ottomans to take more drastic measures.

The "Kalabaliken": A Battle for a King's Departure

The term "Kalabaliken i Bender" itself offers insight into the nature of the event. "Kalabaliken" is derived from the Turkish word "kalabalık," meaning "crowd," "commotion," or "uproar." This vivid term perfectly encapsulates the chaotic and unprecedented nature of the skirmish. Faced with Charles XII's persistent refusal to leave, the Ottoman authorities dispatched a force, reportedly consisting of thousands of Janissaries and other soldiers, to compel his departure. On that fateful day in February 1713, the Ottoman troops surrounded Charles XII's encampment. What ensued was a bizarre and fierce, albeit brief, confrontation. Charles XII, famously leading from the front, reportedly fought with extraordinary bravery, defending his residence with a handful of Swedish soldiers against overwhelming odds. The skirmish involved intense hand-to-hand combat and was marked by the king's personal participation in the defense, even after his house was set ablaze. Despite his valiant resistance, Charles XII was eventually captured, physically dragged out, and taken into custody, effectively ending his prolonged and controversial exile in the Ottoman Empire.

Location and Lasting Legacy

The Skirmish at Bender took place in a region steeped in history, part of what was historically Bessarabia and now lies within Moldova. Bender (Tighina in Romanian) has since been a site of various historical events, but the "Kalabaliken" remains one of its most unique and internationally remembered episodes. The incident forced Charles XII's return journey to Sweden, albeit a perilous and extended one, finally bringing an end to his Ottoman sojourn and allowing him to attempt to salvage his war-torn empire.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Skirmish at Bender

What was the primary objective of the Skirmish at Bender?
The main objective of the Skirmish at Bender was for the Ottoman authorities to forcibly remove King Charles XII of Sweden from their territory, as his prolonged stay and diplomatic demands had become an untenable burden and source of tension.
Where exactly did the Skirmish at Bender take place?
The Skirmish occurred on Ottoman territory in what is now the town of Bender (also known as Tighina), located within modern-day Moldova.
What does the term "Kalabaliken" signify in the context of this event?
The term "Kalabaliken" (from Turkish "kalabalık") translates to "commotion," "uproar," or "crowd," vividly describing the chaotic and unexpected nature of the skirmish and the large number of Ottoman soldiers involved.
What significant historical event led to Charles XII's presence in the Ottoman Empire?
King Charles XII sought refuge in the Ottoman Empire after his decisive defeat by Russian forces at the Battle of Poltava in 1709, a pivotal moment in the Great Northern War.
Did Charles XII resist his removal during the Skirmish?
Yes, King Charles XII famously resisted his removal with extraordinary personal courage, fighting alongside his remaining Swedish guards against a superior Ottoman force, even when his residence was set on fire.