Republic. The dream and only salvation of modern nations. We have been gifted with Atatürk’s intelligence, and with the sacrifices of the people, a great nation has gained its own independence and this beautiful land. As a nation, we rose from the dead and proved the world that, as Turks, we are undefeatable, and created an endless source of pride for generations to come.
A hundred years ago today, as the sun was setting in the evening of 29th of October, the republic has been officially declared. Many devotees and monarchists disagreed with Atatürk, but he has chosen the regime that was suitable for everyone, even though he could have declared himself as the emperor. This is because he have always wanted the best for his people
The previous homeland of Turks in Anatolia, Ottoman Empire, was struggling with many problems for more than three centuries, like the nationalism wave risen from France, which outdated monarchy for good. As more and more rebellions started to show up, the government became uncapable of stopping them. As well as other countries, a request for a country for Turks in particular was arising.
Ottoman Empire was not a demotratic country and was lacking modern properties that a country should have. For example, the word “empire” means, “a group of countries ruled by a single person, government, or country”. It also means “several pieces of coal which can potentially burn in the flames of nationalism”. In the end, as a result of French Revolution, the wick of nationalism was ignited, and it prepared the basis of rebellions.
Also, Ottoman Empire did not have any rights for women. In Ottoman courts, two women were equal the one man and they had barely any rights due to religious and traditional reasons. Unlike the destruction made with the decleration of republic, Atatürk gave women all amenities that men have today, like voting and being able to select your husband.
After its decleration, The Republic of Turkey has faced many terrifying events throughout its history, but in someway or other, we have been gifted to see the hundredth anniversary of our great nation’s decleration, and this day stands as the most important and happiest day of our generation will ever see. Hurray to democracy!