The Turkish Grand National Assembly unanimously elects İsmet İnönü as president

Historical Importance and Background

On November 11, 1938, İsmet İnönü was elected as the second president of the Republic of Turkey, marking a turning point in the country's history. Following the death of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, while the country was in a period of mourning, the Turkish Grand National Assembly unanimously elected İsmet İnönü, one of Atatürk's closest colleagues and a key figure in the founding of the Republic, to the presidency. This event ushered in a critical period for the maintenance of political stability in Turkey and the preservation of the Republican revolutions. İsmet İnönü's leadership in the War of Independence and in the early years of the Republic was an important factor in his appointment.

Development and Effects of the Event

The election of İnönü as president after Atatürk's death demonstrated the determination of the founding cadres of the state to preserve the fundamental principles of the Republic. The Parliament's unanimous election of İsmet İnönü reinforced public confidence that Atatürk's legacy would be preserved. Under İnönü, Turkey continued to pursue a balanced approach in foreign policy. During this period, the world was on the brink of a major conflict such as World War II, but the peaceful policies pursued by İnönü, who adhered to the principle of “peace at home, peace in the world”, kept Turkey away from the devastation of war.

Consequences and Effects

During Inönü's presidency, Turkey managed to avoid the heavy consequences of the war. In domestic politics, the modernization process continued with economic and social reforms. The transition to multi-party politics in 1946 is considered one of the most important transformations in İsmet İnönü's political legacy. This change paved the way for the development of democracy and political diversity in Turkey. Inönü's presidency ensured Turkey's international recognition as an independent, peaceful and reform-oriented state and reinforced the growth of the Republic on solid foundations.