The Turkish Republic is celebrating its Centennial anniversary today (29 October).
Republic Day in Turkey, also known as Cumhuriyet Bayramı, is celebrated on October 29th each year to commemorate the proclamation of The Republic of Turkey. The 100th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey was celebrated on October 29, 2023, marking a significant milestone in Turkish history.
On October 29, 1923, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, officially declared the establishment of The Republic of Turkey, ending the Ottoman Empire’s rule and transforming Turkey into a modern, secular, and democratic nation. This momentous event marked the beginning of a new era for the country and its people.
Republic Day is celebrated with various events and activities across Turkey. These celebrations typically include parades, fireworks, concerts, and other public gatherings. People often adorn their homes and public buildings with the Turkish flag, and the national anthem is sung with great pride.
The 100th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey is an especially significant occasion, and it is likely to be marked with even more grandiose celebrations and festivities, reflecting the importance of this historical milestone in the country’s journey towards modernization and democracy.
When Mustafa Kemal Atatürk proclaimed the Republic of Turkey on October 29, 1923, he made a famous speech to the Turkish Grand National Assembly. In his speech, he expressed his vision for the new Turkish state and emphasized the principles that would guide its transformation. Here is an excerpt from Atatürk's speech on that historic day:
"Turkish people, your existence, your future, your honor and your happiness are in the faith, the determination and the fervor of manhood that are characteristic of you. From the day I took the leadership of the war of salvation until today, the strength of this faith, determination and fervor has never abandoned me, and I have been helped by it. I am grateful to you all for this great service you have done, which I could never repay.
The Republic of Turkey shall be a state of justice, a state where the rule of law, the principle of the equality of citizens before the law, and the principle of the protection of human rights shall be established in accordance with the concepts and understanding of contemporary civilization and law, and which serves its people in accordance with these principles.
A citizen of the Turkish Republic, whatever his religion or race may be, whatever his beliefs or inclinations may be, is a person who has full citizenship rights and responsibilities."
In this speech, Atatürk emphasized the principles of democracy, secularism, and the equality of all citizens, regardless of their religion or ethnicity. He laid the foundation for a modern, secular, and democratic republic, which has since been enshrined in the Turkish Constitution. Atatürk's vision and leadership played a crucial role in shaping modern Turkey.
"How happy is the one who says I am a Turk"
Atatürk used this phrase to emphasize the importance of national identity and unity, encouraging citizens to take pride in their Turkish heritage and culture. It signifies a sense of belonging and commitment to the Turkish nation. The motto highlights the idea that being a part of the Turkish nation is a source of happiness and pride.
"Peace at home Peace in the World"
This motto reflects Atatürk’s foreign policy principles and his belief that establishing and maintaining peace within a nation is crucial for promoting peace on a global scale.
Atatürk believed that a strong, stable, and united nation at home would contribute to greater harmony and cooperation with other nations in the world. This principle underscores the idea that a nation’s internal stability and peace are closely linked to its ability to maintain peaceful relations with other countries.
The motto “Peace at home, peace in the world” is a call for nations to prioritize diplomacy, cooperation, and peaceful solutions to conflicts rather than resorting to violence or war. It conveys the importance of avoiding external conflicts and focusing on domestic prosperity and harmony as a means to promote global peace and stability. This principle remains an important part of Turkey’s foreign policy and diplomatic efforts.
"How happy is the one who says I am a Turk"