Diversity in disunity in the Middle East (Khaled Diab, Al Jazeera)

In the 15th century, the Ottoman Empire, drawing inspiration from Persian and Islamic precedents, created what was known as the "millet" (nation or community) system which granted each recognised religion or sect a great deal of autonomy in managing its own affairs, from setting laws to collecting and distributing taxes.

http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2016/04/diversity-disunity-middle-east-160412091540054.html