Declaration of Ankara as the capital

Historical Significance and Background

The event of Ankara being declared the capital in 1920 is considered a significant turning point in the history of Turkey. This decision led to profound changes in Turkey's political, social, and cultural structure. At the time of the event, Turkey was facing chaos and the threat of occupation as a result of the collapse of the Ottoman Empire.

During this period, with the establishment of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey and the beginning of the Turkish War of Independence, Ankara became the center of national will. The Turkish nation, under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, decided to continue its struggle for independence in Ankara. The declaration of Ankara as the capital was a consequence of this decision.

Development of the Event

Phase: Beginning of the Turkish War of Independence

With the occupation of Turkey in 1919, the Turkish nation embarked on a struggle for independence. The national forces, led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, initiated a resistance movement in Anatolia.

Phase: Establishment of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey

On April 23, 1920, the Grand National Assembly of Turkey was opened in Ankara. This assembly was established to govern and represent the Turkish nation's struggle for independence. Ankara started to gain importance as the center of national will.

Phase: Declaration of Ankara as the Capital

On October 13, 1923, the Grand National Assembly of Turkey declared Ankara as the new capital of Turkey. With this decision, the capital of Turkey was moved from Istanbul to Ankara. Ankara became the political and administrative center of Turkey.

Consequences and Effects

The declaration of Ankara as the capital brought about many short-term and long-term consequences. In the short term, Turkey's political and administrative decision-making processes became centralized in Ankara, and the government's activities were carried out more effectively.

In the long term, the declaration of Ankara as the capital accelerated Turkey's modernization process. The city's infrastructure was developed, public buildings were constructed, and educational institutions were established. Additionally, the declaration of Ankara as the capital strengthened the national identity of the Turkish nation.

In terms of social and political changes, the declaration of Ankara as the capital led to the democratization of Turkey's political system and accelerated the process of modernization. Turkey began to establish closer relations with the Western world and gained a stronger position in the international arena.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present Day

The event of Ankara being declared the capital is considered a significant turning point in modern Turkish history. This event symbolizes Turkey's determination in its struggle for independence and its national will.

Today, Ankara continues to maintain its importance as the political, administrative, and cultural center of Turkey. As the administrative capital of the Republic of Turkey, Ankara directs the country's political decision-making processes and plays an active role in international relations.

With the declaration of Ankara as the capital, Turkey took significant steps towards becoming a modern state. This event represents the determination and courage of the Turkish nation in its struggle for independence and freedom. Ankara, which still holds its importance today, symbolizes a significant turning point in the history of the Turkish nation.

Among the lessons learned from the declaration of Ankara as the capital are the power of national will, the importance of the struggle for independence, and the value of unity and solidarity of the Turkish nation. These lessons serve as important guiding principles for the future development of Turkey.