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On this page, you can explore the catalog of available transcriptions of the Joseph Mathia Svoboda Diaries.
In the diary viewer, you can scroll on the left to advance the transcription, and scroll on the right to advance the original diary images. In many of the diaries, there are marginal notes in Arabic written in ink by the Baghdad
historian Yaqub Serkis sometime after he received them from Alexander Svoboda probably in the late 1920s. Because these notes are a later addition extrinsic to Joseph Mathia Svoboda’s writings, we have gathered them in
an appendix where they are listed under unique identifiers–for example [A47_006_09:001]–recording the diary number, place in the diary, and numerical order. For some of the diaries, we have prepared minimal notes and glosses as well as extensive word lists. In several of the diaries, pockets in the back covers hold a variety of memorabilia including newspaper clippings, pictures, and souvenirs.
Diary 16
February 1876 - August 1876
The plague spreads. Joseph works and travels on the steamship, and frequently meets with Eliza Marine, his future wife.
Diary 16 spans from February 1876 to August 1876. Throughout these 7 months, Joseph details the spreading of plague,
including the number of cases and deaths on either side of the Euphrates River. He also recounts his work travels on the steamship,
and frequently discusses the weather, especially the extreme heat and troubling swarms of mosquitoes on the ship. Additionally, he
frequents meetings with Eliza Marine, his future wife.
Joseph records the events in his life from November 1897 to August 1898. While the diary begins with Joseph returning to Baghdad from Europe later followed by his wife Eliza, much of the diary concerns his son Alexander
who remains in Paris. Apart from Joseph’s complaints with Alexander’s behavior in Europe, he also notes rumors of political developments in southern Iraq and notes Ottoman expansion further southward.
Diary 48 details Joseph’s life as recorded between August 1898 and February 1899. The main developments in the diary surround Alexander’s refusal to leave France as he fell madly in love with a local woman. Joseph responds by financially cutting off his son, who in turn threatens suicide if not provided with more funds. Additionally, Joseph notes a small local uprising and the danger of ship travel on an irregularly low river.
Diary 49 continues the saga of drama between Joseph and his son Alexander who consistently lies to his family while trying to extort money. Adding more scandal to the Svoboda family in Baghdad, Joseph’s nephew Artin
announces his marriage, only soon after to be accused of impregnating his brother’s servant girl. The diary, spanning February through October 1899, notes distinguished guests aboard the steamship whom Joseph
meets.
In Diary 52, Joseph documents his worsening health as it declines. Despite his illness, Joseph remains dedicated to his work when he is able, detailing his travels along the Tigris River. However, he does eventually send in his resignation.
Joseph also reflects on significant events, including his sister Medula's scandalous marriage, the dispute between England and the Ottoman government
over Kuwait's sovereignty, and the loss of his brother Henry.
Diary 55 spans from February 1904 to September 1904. Throughout these 8 months, Joseph talks a great deal about the weather, the spreading of cholera, and war in Eastern Asia.
Additionally, his health continues to suffer from his digestion issues all while his marital issues become more severe.
