dragomans

A dragoman, also spelled targuman or turjuman, was an interpreter, translator, and cultural mediator, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa. The term originates from the Aramaic word "targuman," meaning "translation" or "interpretation." Historically, dragomans played a crucial role in facilitating communication between Europeans and local populations in regions under Ottoman rule and in other parts of the Eastern Mediterranean.

These individuals were essential for diplomatic missions, trade negotiations, and scholarly expeditions. They possessed fluency in multiple languages, including European languages like French, English, and Italian, as well as local languages such as Arabic, Turkish, Persian, and Greek. Beyond linguistic skills, dragomans often had deep knowledge of local customs, laws, and social etiquette, which made them invaluable intermediaries.

The profession gained prominence during the Middle Ages and continued to be significant through the colonial era. European powers often employed dragomans to represent their interests and navigate complex political and social landscapes. Some dragomans achieved considerable influence and wealth, while others remained in more subordinate roles. The role gradually diminished with the rise of formal diplomatic services and the increasing accessibility of language education in the West.