Foreign Minister Şükrü Saracoğlu Becomes Prime Minister

Historical Significance and Background

The appointment of Şükrü Saracoğlu as the Prime Minister following his role as the Minister of Foreign Affairs is a significant turning point in Turkey's foreign policy during World War II. This event serves as a step that demonstrates Turkey's efforts to maintain its neutrality. This event, which took place on November 22, 1939, should be examined within the historical context of the period and the developments leading up to it.

Development of the Event

Historical Background

During the 1930s, the world was overshadowed by the Second World War. Due to its geopolitical location, Turkey wanted to avoid the effects of the war and maintain its neutrality. During this period, Turkey continued its efforts to improve its relations with Western states and to remain independent from the warring parties.

Development of the Event

Şükrü Saracoğlu played a significant role in Turkey's foreign policy as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Following İsmet İnönü's resignation, Saracoğlu became the Prime Minister of Turkey on November 22, 1939. He held this position until 1942.

During Saracoğlu's tenure as Prime Minister, Turkey continued to pursue its policy of neutrality. The country endeavored to establish good relations with both Germany and England by engaging in diplomatic efforts to avoid participating in the war. Saracoğlu did not take a clear stance towards any of the warring parties and based Turkey's foreign policy on neutrality.

Consequences and Effects

Saracoğlu's policy of neutrality during his tenure as Prime Minister helped Turkey avoid the effects of the war. In the short term, it contributed to maintaining Turkey's strategic position and ensuring internal stability by remaining independent from the warring parties.

The long-term consequences manifested in Turkey's continued policy of neutrality and its recognition as a reliable actor in international relations. Turkey seized the opportunity to play an active role on the international stage after the war.

However, Saracoğlu's policy of neutrality during his tenure as Prime Minister also led to some changes in domestic politics as a result of Turkey's efforts to remain independent from the warring parties. The country accelerated the process of modernization by focusing on economic and social reforms. The policy of neutrality supported Turkey's efforts towards democratization.

Historical Significance and Relevance to the Present

Saracoğlu's policy of neutrality during his tenure as Prime Minister increased Turkey's influence in the modern world. The country was accepted as a reliable partner on the international stage and improved its relations with other countries.

Today, the principle of neutrality still holds an important place in Turkey's foreign policy. This period laid the foundation for Turkey to embrace neutrality and diplomatic solutions in its foreign policy.

The lessons learned from this event highlight the importance of Turkey's policy of neutrality. This policy has helped Turkey avoid the effects of the war and maintain internal stability. Additionally, the policy of neutrality has enabled Turkey to be recognized as a reliable actor on the international stage.