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Years of war, a weary nation, and a determined leader who started it all! That great day: October 29, 1923. The Republic was not just a revolution; it was also the salvation of future generations. Exactly 102 years ago, the destiny of a nation changed drastically. The Republic, which laid the foundations of modern Türkiye, was declared. So, how were the first steps of this challenging process taken? What did this great revolution bring? Let's take a short journey into the past of this precious and special day!

Decisive Steps Leading to the Republic of Türkiye

As the calendars marked July 28, 1914, a great war began around the world. World War I, like many other countries, brought about the end of the Ottoman Empire. Having joined the war alongside Germany, the Ottoman Empire entered a difficult period at the end of the war. The signing of the Treaty of Sèvres, whose acceptance was stipulated with harsh conditions, meant the demise of the Ottoman Empire. However, this treaty not only accelerated the Ottoman Empire's collapse but also the beginning of a new era.

The lands of a great empire that had existed for centuries were now being divided among enemy states around a single table. The Ottoman Empire was perhaps the most wounded state in World War I. With only a tiny piece of land left, the sick and wounded empire had nothing left to do. That is, until a group of patriotic soldiers and the brave people behind them stepped onto the stage of history to say, "Stop!"

Stepping into Samsun on May 19, 1919, Mustafa Kemal had already begun to plan for liberation in the face of this dire situation. These lands were soaked in the blood of the Turkish nation and could not so easily be surrendered to enemy powers. This small step taken towards Samsun was the first step towards a strong, independent and free country.

A Nation's Hope for Freedom

All corners of the country were under occupation by British, French, Greek and Italian troops. Mustafa Kemal, risking everything, left İstanbul and traveled to Anatolia to fight. This journey, which began in Samsun, first extended to Havza, then to Amasya, Erzurum and Sivas. The nation would save its future with its own determination and resolve.

The homeland was one, indivisible. The Turkish nation was ready to sacrifice its blood and life for this cause, if necessary. And so it was. First, the Turkish Grand National Assembly was opened on April 23, 1920. This assembly buried the Treaty of Sèvres, which had divided Ottoman lands among enemy states, in the dusty pages of history. It was time to fight. The Turkish nation, which had achieved heroism in every inch of its homeland, east, south and west, experienced the joy of victory after a difficult period. The homeland was cleared of enemy soldiers. Now it was time to build a modern country.

The Great Transformation After the Republican Regime

On October 28, 1923, Mustafa Kemal announced the great good news: "Gentlemen, tomorrow we will declare the Republic." A republic meant freedom, equality, justice, security and democracy. Sovereignty should now belong unconditionally to the nation. The state would be governed by the will of the people, not by the authority of the palace.

Thanks to the Republic, citizens enjoyed equal rights and freedom of thought and belief was guaranteed. Following the proclamation of the Republic, developments continued in every field. With the principle of secularism, religious affairs were separated from state affairs. Education was prioritized for the future of the country. The Alphabet Reform introduced a new alphabet compatible with the Turkish language. This innovation was a major step towards raising the standard of education. Schools that would advance the modern Turkish state were opened in place of madrasahs. Important institutions such as the Turkish Historical Society and the Turkish Language Society were established, facilitating the Turkish nation's learning of its language and history. Turkish women gained the right to vote and be elected.

The Most Valuable Trust Bequeathed to Future Generations

This blessed day symbolizes a nation's independence and freedom. This sun, rising after challenging times, will always illuminate our path. Our duty is to protect the precious treasure entrusted to the Turkish nation under all circumstances. We commemorate this meaningful day, which we celebrate with greater enthusiasm each year with respect, love and gratitude, our great leader Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who gifted it to the Turkish nation and his comrades-in-arms who did not hesitate to sacrifice their lives for this cause.

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