The Beginning of Kenan Evren's Presidency

Historical Importance and Background

An important event that took place in Turkey in 1982 was the beginning of Kenan Evren's presidency. Kenan Evren was the leader of the military coup that took place on September 12, 1980, and served as the 7th President of Turkey.

The 1980s were a period of significant political and social change in Turkey. Increasing terrorist incidents, political instability, and economic crises had put the country in a difficult situation throughout the 1970s. These conditions led to an environment that resulted in a military intervention.

The September 12, 1980 coup was one of the bloodiest coups in Turkey's history. The military administration led by Kenan Evren closed political parties, banned political activities, and arrested thousands of people. This coup dealt a severe blow to the country's democratic processes and had profound effects on society.

Development of the Event

Planning and Implementation of the Coup

The September 12, 1980 coup began with the planning of a military intervention. The High Military Council, led by Kenan Evren, decided to carry out the coup. On September 12, 1980, a military operation conducted by the Turkish Armed Forces resulted in the coup.

After the coup, Kenan Evren assumed the presidency of the Republic of Turkey and established a military administration to govern the country. Democratic processes were suspended, political parties were closed, and the constitution was suspended. As the leader of the military administration, Kenan Evren declared martial law in the country and implemented a series of measures.

New Constitution and Referendum

The military administration, under the leadership of Kenan Evren, prepared a new constitution, which was presented to a referendum on May 7, 1982. This constitution was prepared within the framework determined by the military administration and was accepted by the public. The new constitution paved the way for Kenan Evren to become the President.

On November 9, 1982, Kenan Evren assumed the presidency. This date was considered as a symbol of Turkey's return to democratic processes. Kenan Evren represented the beginning of a period in which the military administration ended, and democratic processes resumed.

Consequences and Effects

Kenan Evren's assumption of the presidency brought about significant changes in Turkey's political and social structure. In the short term, the end of the military administration and the resumption of democratic processes created great hope and optimism in society.

In the long term, the Kenan Evren era is considered a milestone in Turkey's democratization process. Constitutional changes made after the coup allowed the reestablishment of political parties and revitalized democratic processes.

The Kenan Evren era had profound effects on Turkey's political and social structure. As the leader of the coup, Kenan Evren elicited both positive and negative reactions from society. While some saw him as an authoritarian leader, others viewed him as a hero who restored order in the country.

Historical Importance and Reflections to the Present Day

The Kenan Evren era is considered a significant turning point in Turkey's modern history. This period is evaluated as an example that demonstrates the challenges and successes of Turkey's democratization process.

To this day, the Kenan Evren era is still subject to debate. While some see him as an enemy of democratic processes, others argue that he was a leader who brought political and economic stability to Turkey.

The Kenan Evren era holds an important place in Turkey's political and social history. This period serves as an example of the challenges and successes of the country's democratization process and has a profound impact on current political and social changes with the lessons learned.