What is the saying "A sick man of Europe" in reference or applied to?

Answer by  Darry (3853)

The saying is applied to European countries in economic distress. The term is often attributed to Tsar Nicholas the First discussing the Ottoman Empire. This, however, like many historic quotes has never been validated as actual truth. It has been applied to many countries in history such as the U. K. and Russia.

Answer by  vsgunnam (222)

The term is used to denote a European country that experiences economic crisis or poverty or both. The term was originally used to describe the Ottoman empire and Turkey