Start of the National Struggle

The Historical Significance and Background

The event that took place in 1919 is a turning point in the Turkish nation's National Struggle process. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, after arriving in Samsun, came to Ankara on December 27, 1919, and continued to manage the National Struggle from here. This event has great importance in Turkish history and has paved the way for the establishment of the Republic of Turkey.

In 1919, following the defeat of the Ottoman Empire in World War I and the signing of the Armistice of Mudros, Turkish territories were invaded. The occupiers established control in various regions in Anatolia and pursued policies to suppress the Turkish people. Although this situation damaged the honor and desire for independence of the Turkish nation, it also sowed the seeds of the National Struggle.

In the period before the National Struggle, the Turkish people showed their reaction against the occupiers. Various social and political groups in Istanbul made various attempts to resist the occupiers, but due to the lack of coordination, these attempts were not successful. This led to the organization and leadership search for the National Struggle.

The Development of the Event

Mustafa Kemal's Arrival in Samsun

On May 19, 1919, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk set foot in Samsun and took the first step of the National Struggle. He organized the people against the occupiers in Samsun and mobilized the Turkish nation for the struggle for independence. After this date, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk traveled to different regions of Anatolia, organized the people, and laid the foundations of the National Struggle.

Selection of Ankara as the Center

On December 27, 1919, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk came to Ankara and chose it as the center of the National Struggle. Ankara was preferred due to its strategic location and being safer compared to the occupiers. Atatürk conducted activities in Ankara for the organization of the National Struggle, formed the government, and managed the struggle from here.

Development of the War and Victories

During the National Struggle, the Turkish nation showed great resistance against the occupiers. Various battles and conflicts took place, making it difficult for the occupiers to maintain control over Turkish territories. Important victories such as the Battle of Sakarya and the Great Offensive demonstrated the Turkish nation's determination and resolve. These victories increased the Turkish nation's belief in the struggle for independence and caused a significant morale decline among the occupiers.

Consequences and Effects

At the end of the National Struggle, the Turkish nation gained its independence and laid the foundations of the Republic of Turkey. Short-term effects include the withdrawal of the occupiers from Turkish territories, the repulsion of Greek forces, and the reestablishment of Turkish sovereignty.

Long-term consequences include Turkey's entry into a process of modernization, the establishment of a democratic state structure, and the strengthening of the Turkish nation's national identity. The National Struggle demonstrated the Turkish people's desire for independence and freedom to the whole world and enabled Turkey to gain a respected position internationally.

The National Struggle also led to political and social changes in Turkish society. With the proclamation of the Republic, secularism and modernization policies were implemented in Turkey, and significant steps were taken in areas such as women's rights and education. During this period, Turkey aimed to establish closer relations with the West and create a state structure in line with European standards.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present Day

The historical significance and reflections of the National Struggle are immense. This period symbolizes the Turkish nation's quest for independence and freedom. The resistance of the Turkish people is regarded as a global example and a source of inspiration for other struggles for independence.

The establishment of the Republic of Turkey took place under the leadership of Atatürk after the National Struggle was won. Atatürk's reforms played a significant role in the modernization process of Turkish society and transformed Turkey into a contemporary state.

The successes achieved during the National Struggle ensured that Turkey gained a respected position in the international arena. Turkey became a country admired by other nations for its determination and success in the struggle for independence.

The lessons learned from the National Struggle emphasize the importance of unity and solidarity among the Turkish nation. The determination and perseverance shown in the struggle for independence demonstrated the strength of the Turkish people, and this spirit of unity during this period is still considered an important value today.