The island of Crete is declared an Ottoman province (eyalet) in 1646, after the Ottomans manage to conquer the western part of the island as part of the Cretan War but the Venetians maintain their hold on the capital Candia until 1669, when Francesco Morosini surrenders the keys of the town.

The offshore island fortresses of Souda, Granbousa, and Spinalonga remain under Venetian rule until in 1715, when they too are captured by the Ottomans.

Crete takes part in the Greek War of Independence, but the local uprising is suppressed with the aid of Muhammad Ali of Egypt.

The island remains under Egyptian control until 1840, when it is restored to full Ottoman authority.

Following the Cretan Revolt of 1866–69 and especially the Pact of Halepa in 1878, the island receives significant autonomy.