Kenan Evren's assumption of the presidency.

Historical Significance and Background

The assumption of the Presidency by Kenan Evren marks a significant turning point in Turkey's political history. Evren, the leader of the September 12, 1980 coup, took office as the 7th President of the Republic of Turkey on December 7, 1982.

The 1980s were a period in which Turkey struggled with political and economic problems. The country faced terrorism, economic crises, and political uncertainties. The September 12, 1980 coup was carried out to put an end to this period of instability and to restore discipline.

Following the coup, the National Security Council led by Kenan Evren assumed control of the country. During this period, many political parties were closed down, political activities were banned, and basic rights and freedoms were restricted. Kenan Evren, by assuming the presidency on December 7, 1982, became the country's political leader in the aftermath of the coup.

Development of the Event

Planning and Execution of the Coup

The September 12, 1980 coup was carried out after prolonged political and social crises. The military authorities, led by Kenan Evren, decided to intervene militarily as they believed that the government was unable to produce solutions due to increasing terrorist acts, political instability, and economic crises.

On September 12, 1980, the National Security Council, led by Kenan Evren, seized power through a military intervention. The government was dismissed, political parties were closed down, and the constitution was suspended. Martial law was declared in the country, and a series of prohibitions were imposed.

New Constitution and Elections

Following the coup, the National Security Council, led by Kenan Evren, prepared a new constitution. This constitution, known as the 1982 Constitution, was accepted as the fundamental law of the military regime. The constitution restricted civilian political parties and ensured a significant role for military authorities.

In the elections held in 1983, Kenan Evren was elected as the 7th President of the Republic of Turkey. The elections indicated the end of years of military rule and the beginning of a democratic process.

Consequences and Impacts

Kenan Evren's presidency brought about significant changes in Turkey's political and social structure. In the short term, the coup brought a period of stability to the country and reduced terrorist acts. However, the martial law and human rights violations introduced by the coup also drew criticism.

In the long term, the Kenan Evren era had an impact on Turkey's democratization process. Constitutional amendments and political restrictions led to the limitation of democratic rights and freedoms. However, following the political instability created by the coup, Turkey experienced economic growth and strengthened its international relations.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present Day

Kenan Evren's presidency is considered a significant turning point in Turkey's political history. This period was a time of political instability and human rights violations in the country.

Today, the Kenan Evren era is still a subject of debate. Some argue that the coup saved the country from terrorism and political uncertainty, while others criticize the martial law and human rights violations brought about by the coup.

However, the Kenan Evren era had an impact on Turkey's democratization process. The constitutional amendments and political restrictions introduced by the coup played an important role in Turkey's transition to democracy.

The assumption of the Presidency by Kenan Evren is an important event in Turkey's political history. This event brought about significant changes in the country's political and social structure and led to many political and societal changes that form the basis of present-day Turkey.