Last Updated:

2024-04-19 01:26:08

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

Turkish revolutionary statesman and founding father of Turkey

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Turkish revolutionary statesman and founding father of Turkey

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was a Turkish field marshal, revolutionary statesman, and the founding father of the Republic of Turkey. He modernized Turkey into a secular, industrializing nation through sweeping progressive reforms. Atatürk's policies and socio-political theories became known as Kemalism. He abolished the sultanate, established the Turkish Republic, and initiated reforms in education, language, and women's rights. Atatürk was honored internationally for his efforts towards peace and cooperation between nations.

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1842-09-21

Birth of Sultan Abdul Hamid II

Sultan Abdul Hamid II was born on September 21, 1842.

1881-05-19

Birth of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founding father of the Republic of Turkey, was born on May 19, 1881. He played a crucial role in modernizing Turkey and implementing sweeping reforms.

1893

Mustafa Kemal enters Military Secondary School

Young Mustafa entered Military Secondary School in Salonika and was given the additional name of Kemal.

1895

Mustafa Kemal enters the military school in Monastir

In 1895, Mustafa Kemal entered the military school in Monastir (now Bitola, North Macedonia). It was here that he made new friends, including Ali Fethi (Okyar), who would later play a role in the creation of the Turkish republic.

1896

Revolt by students of Military Medical School in Istanbul suppressed

In 1896, a revolt led by students of the Military Medical School in Istanbul was suppressed.

1897-04-17

Ottoman-Greek war commences

On April 17, 1897, the Ottoman-Greek war commenced due to a Greek threat to annex Crete, but it was later resolved through a peace settlement mediated by European Powers.

1898

State visit of Kaiser Wilhelm II to Ottoman Empire

In 1898, Kaiser Wilhelm II paid a state visit to the Ottoman Empire.

1899-03-13

Mustafa Kemal enters War College in Istanbul

On March 13, 1899, Mustafa Kemal entered the War College in Istanbul.

1902

Graduation from Istanbul War College

Mustafa Kemal graduated from the Istanbul War College with the rank of infantry second lieutenant in 1902.

1905-01-11

Mustafa Kemal graduates from the General Staff College

Mustafa Kemal completed his studies at the General Staff College and received the rank of Staff Captain. He was then assigned to the Fifth Army in Damascus.

1906-10

Mustafa Kemal helps found Fatherland Society

In October 1906, Mustafa Kemal assists in establishing the Fatherland (Vatan) Society in Damascus.

1907-06-20

Promotion to Senior Captain

Atatürk was promoted to the rank of Senior Captain (Kolağası) on 20 June 1907 while serving in the Fifth Army based in Damascus.

1907-10-13

Assignment to Third Army Headquarters

Atatürk was assigned to the headquarters of the Third Army in Manastır on 13 October 1907.

1908-06-22

Appointment as Inspector of Ottoman Railways

Atatürk was appointed the Inspector of the Ottoman Railways in Eastern Rumelia on 22 June 1908.

1909-04-13

Counter-revolution in Istanbul

On April 13, 1909, a counter-revolution took place in Istanbul against the ruling Union and Progress Party, with Mustafa Kemal playing a role in the events.

1910

Mustafa Kemal serves as Chief of Staff in suppression of revolt in Albania

In 1910, Mustafa Kemal took on the role of Chief of Staff in dealing with a revolt in Albania.

1911-09-13

Mustafa Kemal is posted to the General Staff in Istanbul

On September 13, 1911, Mustafa Kemal was stationed at the General Staff headquarters in Istanbul.

1911-12-22

Battle of Tobruk

Mustafa Kemal won the Battle of Tobruk against the Italian forces on 22 December 1911 during the war against the Italians attacking Tripoli (Libya).

1912-01-09

Mustafa Kemal transferred to the General Staff in Istanbul

January 9, 1912, saw Mustafa Kemal being transferred to the General Staff in Istanbul. This assignment placed him in a key position within the military hierarchy.

1912-01-16

Battle of Derna

During the Battle of Derna on 16 January 1912, Atatürk was injured in the left eye by a limestone splinter, causing permanent tissue damage but not total loss of sight. He received medical treatment for nearly a month and later became the Commander of the Ottoman forces in Derna on 6 March 1912.

1912-03-06

Appointment as Commander-in-Chief of Derna Front

Mustafa Kemal was appointed as the Commander-in-Chief of Derna Front on 6 March 1912 during the war against the Italians in Libya.

1912-10-08

Beginning of First Balkan War

The First Balkan War started on October 8, 1912, involving Montenegro, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Greece against the Ottoman Empire. The war resulted in severe defeats for the Ottoman Empire, particularly at Salonika.

1912-11-25

Mustafa Kemal leads Tobruk offensive in Libya

On November 25, 1912, Mustafa Kemal demonstrated his military prowess by successfully leading the Tobruk offensive in Libya. This victory showcased his strategic acumen.

1912-12-03

End of First Balkan War

The First Balkan War ended on December 3, 1912, marking the conclusion of the conflict between the Balkan League (Montenegro, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Greece) and the Ottoman Empire. The war resulted in significant territorial losses for the Ottoman Empire.

1913-05-30

Treaty of London between Ottomans and Balkan states

On May 30, 1913, the Treaty of London was signed between the Ottoman Empire and the Balkan states. This treaty aimed to settle the territorial disputes and conflicts between the Ottomans and the Balkan nations.

1913-07-20

Second Balkan War

Bulgaria attacks Greece, Serbia, and Romania during the Second Balkan War.

1913-09-27

Treaty of Bucharest

The Treaty of Bucharest is signed, restoring territory to the Ottoman Empire.

1913-10-27

Mustafa Kemal appointed Director of Operations (Mediterranean Straits Special Forces)

Mustafa Kemal is given the role of Director of Operations for the Mediterranean Straits Special Forces.

1914-03-01

Mustafa Kemal promoted Lieutenant-Colonel

Mustafa Kemal is promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel on March 1, 1914.

1914-10-28

Ottoman Shelling of Russian Black Sea Ports

On October 28, 1914, Ottomans shelled Russian Black Sea ports.

1914-11-03

Russia Declares War on Ottoman Empire

On November 3, 1914, Russia declared war on the Ottoman Empire.

1914-11-05

Britain and France Declare War on Ottoman Empire

On November 5, 1914, Britain and France declared war on the Ottoman Empire.

1915-02-25

Mustafa Kemal establishes Headquarters of Nineteenth Division at Maidos on Gallipoli Peninsula

On February 25, 1915, Mustafa Kemal set up the Headquarters of the Nineteenth Division in Maidos on the Gallipoli Peninsula.

1915-03-18

Battle of Canakkale

During the Battle of Canakkale, Allied navy fails to force the Turkish Straits. Mustafa Kemal showcases exceptional skills as a soldier and commander.

1915-04-25

Battle of Gallipoli (Battle of Canakkale)

Mustafa Kemal led the Turkish forces to defend Gallipoli against the Entente States, resulting in approximately 253,000 Turkish casualties. His famous order to his soldiers 'I do not order you to attack, I order you to die' became legendary.

1915-06-01

Mustafa Kemal promoted to Colonel

On June 1, 1915, Mustafa Kemal was promoted to the rank of Colonel due to his exceptional leadership and skills displayed during the battle at Canakkale.

1915-08-09

Victory of Battle of Anafartalar

Under the command of Mustafa Kemal, the Anafartalar Group achieved victory in the Battle of Anafartalar on 9-10 August 1915, during the Gallipoli campaign.

1915-08-17

Victory of Battle of Kirectepe

Mustafa Kemal led the Turkish forces to victory in the Battle of Kirectepe on 17 August 1915, further solidifying the defense of Gallipoli.

1915-08-21

Second Battle of Anafartalar

Mustafa Kemal's leadership led to victory in the Second Battle of Anafartalar on 21 August 1915, showcasing the strategic prowess of the Turkish forces in Gallipoli.

1915-09-06

Mustafa Kemal appointed Commander of Third Army

Mustafa Kemal is assigned as the Commander of the Third Army on September 6, 1915, later becoming the Commander of the Thirty-eighth Infantry Regiment.

1916-01-14

Mustafa Kemal posted to Adrianople in command of Sixteenth Army Corps

On January 14, 1916, Mustafa Kemal was assigned to command the Sixteenth Army Corps in Adrianople before being transferred to the Caucasus front. This marked a strategic shift in his military career.

1916-04-01

Promotion to Brigadier General

Mustafa Kemal was promoted to brigadier general on 1 April 1916, recognizing his exceptional leadership and military skills during the Gallipoli campaign.

1916-08-06

Mustafa Kemal promoted to Brigadier-General

In August 6, 1916, Mustafa Kemal was promoted to the rank of Brigadier-General.

1916-08-07

Mustafa Kemal wins back Bitlis and Muş

On August 7, 1916, Mustafa Kemal successfully recaptured Bitlis and Muş from the enemy forces.

1916-08-09

Mustafa Kemal appointed to command of Sixteenth Army Corps

On August 9, 1916, Mustafa Kemal was appointed to the command of the Sixteenth Army Corps. He led the defense against the second Allied advance on the Gallipoli Peninsula.

1917-03-07

Promotion to overall command of the Second Army

On 7 March 1917, Atatürk was promoted to the overall command of the Second Army during World War I.

1917-03-11

Mustafa Kemal appointed second-in-command effective Commander of Second Army

On March 11, 1917, Mustafa Kemal was appointed as the second-in-command, effectively becoming the Commander of the Second Army during World War I.

1917-08-07

Atatürk appointed to command of Seventh Army

In July 1917, Atatürk was appointed to lead the Seventh Army, replacing Fevzi Pasha. He had conflicts with German General von Falkenhayn and eventually resigned due to disagreements over strategy in the Palestinian front.

1917-09-20

Mustafa Kemal sends report to Government on the poor state of the army

On September 20, 1917, Mustafa Kemal sent a report to the Government detailing the dire condition of the army and the country, leading him to relinquish his command.

1917-12-11

British forces capture Jerusalem

On December 11, 1917, British forces successfully captured Jerusalem.

1918-01-05

Mustafa Kemal visits Germany with Crown Prince Vahdettin

In December 1917 to January 1918, Mustafa Kemal traveled to Germany accompanied by Crown Prince Vahdettin.

1918-08-15

Commander-in-Chief of the 7 Army in Aleppo

Mustafa Kemal returned to the Front as the Commander-in-Chief of the 7 Army in Aleppo on 15 August 1918, where he achieved remarkable defensive victories against British forces.

1918-09-30

British forces drive Turkish forces out of Palestine and Syria

On September 30, 1918, British forces led by General Allenby successfully pushed Turkish forces out of Palestine and Syria. This marked a significant turning point in the Middle Eastern theater of World War I.

1918-10-30

Armistice signed between Ottomans and Britain at Mudros

On October 30, 1918, an armistice was signed between the Ottoman Empire and Britain at Mudros. This agreement marked the end of hostilities between the two parties during World War I.

1918-10-31

Commander-in-Chief of the Lightning Army Group

Mustafa Kemal was appointed as the Commander-in-Chief of the Lightning Army Group on 31 October 1918, a day after the signing of the truce in Moudros, showcasing his pivotal role in the final stages of World War I.

1918-11-13

Appointment in the Ministry of War

After the abolishment of the Lightning Army Group, Mustafa Kemal was appointed to a duty in the Ministry of War in Istanbul on 13 November 1918, marking a transition to a new phase of his military and political career.

1919-04-30

Atatürk Assigned as Inspector of Ninth Army Troops

On April 30, 1919, Atatürk was assigned as the inspector of the Ninth Army Troops to reorganize the remaining Ottoman military units and improve internal security. This marked the beginning of his efforts in the Turkish War of Independence.

1919-05-16

Mustafa Kemal appointed Inspector of the 9th Army in Erzurum

Mustafa Kemal is given the role of Inspector of the 9th Army in Erzurum and is given significant authority.

1919-05-19

Mustafa Kemal arrives in Samsun

Mustafa Kemal arrived in Samsun on 19 May 1919 as the Inspector General of the 9 Army, marking the beginning of his leadership in the Turkish War of Independence.

1919-06-22

Amasya Circular

Mustafa Kemal issued the Amasya Circular on June 22, 1919, declaring the country's integrity and the nation's independence in danger and announcing the upcoming congress in Sivas.

1919-06-23

Mustafa Kemal ordered to return to Istanbul

On June 23, 1919, Mustafa Kemal was ordered by the Ottoman Government to return to Istanbul, but he defied the order and continued his efforts for independence.

1919-07-08

Mustafa Kemal lands in Samsun

On July 8, 1919, Mustafa Kemal lands in Samsun, marking the beginning of the Turkish national liberation movement and becoming an official holiday dedicated to the youth of Turkey.

1919-07-23

Erzurum Convention

Mustafa Kemal chaired the convention held in Erzurum on July 23, 1919, as part of the efforts to organize the resistance against foreign occupation.

1919-09-04

Sivas Congress

Mustafa Kemal chaired the Sivas Congress on September 4, 1919, where crucial decisions were made for the future of the Turkish nation and the independence struggle.

1919-11-13

Mustafa Kemal returns to Istanbul

On November 13, 1919, Mustafa Kemal returned to Istanbul.

1919-11-21

Dissolution of Parliament

On November 21, 1919, the Parliament was dissolved.

1919-12-27

Mustafa Kemal welcomed in Ankara

On 27 December 1919, Mustafa Kemal was warmly welcomed in Ankara, showcasing the growing support for the independence movement.

1920-01-09

National Pact adopted by Istanbul Parliament

The National Pact was adopted by the Istanbul Parliament on January 9th.

1920-01-12

Opening of the Fourth Term of Ottoman Parliament

The fourth term of the Ottoman parliament opened in Constantinople on 12 January 1920. However, it was dissolved by British forces on 18 March 1920 after adopting the Misak-ı Millî ('National Pact').

1920-01-28

Mustafa Kemal establishes headquarters in Ankara, with Representative Committee

Mustafa Kemal established his headquarters in Ankara on January 28th along with the Representative Committee.

1920-03-16

Military occupation of Istanbul by Allies

On March 16, 1920, Istanbul was occupied by Allied forces.

1920-04-11

Dissolution of Istanbul Parliament

On April 11, 1920, the Istanbul Parliament was dissolved.

1920-04-23

Rejection of the Sèvres Treaty

Mustafa Kemal announced to the world that the Turkish nation does not recognize the Sèvres Treaty, which was signed between the Ottoman Government and the Allied Forces.

1920-04-24

Atatürk elected as Speaker of the House

Atatürk was elected as the Speaker of the House (National Assembly) on April 24, 1920. This position was equivalent to the Head of State and the Government combined.

1920-04-30

Mustafa Kemal appointed Inspector-General of Ninth (later Third) Army in Anatolia

On April 30, 1920, Mustafa Kemal was appointed Inspector-General of the Ninth Army in Anatolia, later known as the Third Army.

1920-05-11

Mustafa Kemal condemned to death by Sultan's Government

On May 11, 1920, Mustafa Kemal was sentenced to death by the Sultan's Government.

1920-06-09

Greek Army Captures Bursa

In June 1920, the Greek army advanced into Anatolia and captured the city of Bursa.

1920-06-10

Treaty of Sevres presented by Allies to Sultan's Government

On June 10, 1920, the Treaty of Sevres was presented to the Sultan's Government by the Allies.

1920-08-10

Treaty of Sevres Signed

On August 10, 1920, the Sultan's Government signed the Treaty of Sevres.

1920-08-24

Draft Treaty Signed in Moscow

A draft treaty was initialled in Moscow on August 24, 1920, between the Soviet Union and the Nationalist Government.

1920-09-28

Nationalist Forces Capture Kars

From September 28 to November 2, 1920, Nationalist forces invaded regions with Armenian revolts and captured the city of Kars.

1920-10-05

Establishment of Representative Committee

A Representative Committee was established on October 5th.

1920-11-07

Resignation of Government

The government resigned on November 7th.

1920-12-27

New Parliament elected in Istanbul with Nationalist representation

A new Parliament was elected in Istanbul on December 27th with Nationalist representation.

1921-01-20

Grand National Assembly at Ankara adopts Constitution Act

On January 20, 1921, the Grand National Assembly at Ankara adopted the Constitution Act based on popular sovereignty.

1921-08-05

Mustafa Kemal given full powers as Commander-in-Chief

On August 5, 1921, Mustafa Kemal was granted full powers as the Commander-in-Chief by the Grand National Assembly.

1921-08-23

Battle of Sakarya begins

From August 23 to September 13, 1921, the Battle of Sakarya took place where the Turks managed to halt the Greek advance towards Ankara.

1921-08-26

Greeks defeated at Battle of Sakarya

On August 26, 1921, the Greeks were pushed back and defeated at the Battle of Sakarya.

1921-09-19

Mustafa Kemal becomes Marshal and Gazi

The Grand National Assembly grants Mustafa Kemal the rank of Marshal and the title Gazi (Victor) on September 19, 1921.

1921-09-23

Promotion of Mustafa Kemal to Marshal and Gazi

As a result of the victory in the Battle of the Sakarya River, Mustafa Kemal was promoted to the rank of Marshal and honored with the title of Gazi (war veteran) by the TBMM.

1921-10-13

Treaty of Kars signed

The Treaty of Kars was signed between the Nationalist Government and the Transcaucasian Soviet Republics on October 13, 1921.

1921-10-20

Treaty of Ankara signed

The Treaty of Ankara was signed between the Nationalist Government and France on October 20, 1921.

1922-08-26

Great Offensive led by Gazi Mustafa Kemal

Gazi Mustafa Kemal starts leading the Great Offensive from the hill of Kocatepe on August 26, 1922.

1922-08-30

Battle of Dumlupınar

Gazi Mustafa Kemal Paşa emerged victorious in the Battle of Dumlupınar.

1922-09-09

Turkish Army Enters Izmir

On 9 September 1922, the Turkish Army chased the defeated enemy forces and successfully entered Izmir.

1922-09-10

Mustafa Kemal enters Izmir

Gazi Mustafa Kemal entered Izmir after the victory in the Battle of Dumlupınar.

1922-10-11

Mudanya Armistice Signed

The Mudanya Armistice was signed on 11 October 1922, leading to the withdrawal of Allied Forces from Turkish territories.

1922-11-01

Abolishment of the Sultanate

The Grand National Assembly accepted Gazi Mustafa Kemal's proposal to abolish the Sultanate.

1922-11-20

Flight of Sultan Mehmet VI from Istanbul

Sultan Mehmet VI fled from Istanbul on November 20, 1922, as the Ottoman Empire faced its final days.

1923-01-14

Death of Mustafa Kemal's mother, in Izmir

On January 14, 1923, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's mother passed away in Izmir, marking a personal loss for the leader of the Turkish Republic.

1923-01-29

Atatürk's marriage to Latife Hanim

Atatürk married Latife Hanim on January 29, 1923. Their marriage lasted until August 5, 1925.

1923-02-23

Mustafa Kemal opens Economic Congress in Izmir

On February 23, 1923, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk inaugurates the Economic Congress in Izmir.

1923-02-25

Marriage to Latife Usakligil

Atatürk married Latife Usakligil in early 1923, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1925.

1923-03-31

General Amnesty Declaration

On March 31, 1923, a general amnesty was declared for those convicted of court-martial and municipal courts after the defeat of the Ottoman forces. This decision included individuals involved in the Armenian genocide, despite previous pledges to prosecute them.

1923-07-25

Signing of the Lausanne Treaty

The Lausanne Treaty was signed on July 25, 1923, marking an important agreement that defined the borders of modern Turkey.

1923-08-09

Foundation of People's Party (CHP)

The People's Party (CHP) was founded on August 9, 1923.

1923-08-11

Second Grand National Assembly

The Second Grand National Assembly was established on August 11, 1923.

1923-09-09

Foundation of People's Party

Atatürk founded the People's Party, which later became the Republican People's Party, as the only political party in the Grand National Assembly. It played a significant role in the one-party regime established in 1925.

1923-10-02

Turkish forces occupy Istanbul

On October 2, 1923, Turkish forces occupied Istanbul following the Allied evacuation.

1923-10-29

Establishment of the Turkish Republic

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk proclaimed the foundation of the Turkish Republic on October 29, 1923, after abolishing the sultanate the previous year. He initiated a series of reforms to build a republican and secular nation-state.

1923-10-30

Formation of the First Government of the Republic

Ismet Inönü formed the first government of the Republic on 30 October 1923, contributing to the early governance of the newly established Turkish Republic.

1924-03-03

Abolition of the Caliphate

Atatürk officially abolished the caliphate in Turkey, transferring its powers to the Grand National Assembly. This move was met with opposition and debates in other Muslim nations.

1924-04-08

Abolition of religious courts

On April 8, 1924, religious courts were abolished in Turkey as part of the secular reforms initiated by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This move aimed to separate religion from the state's legal system.

1924-08-24

Mustafa Kemal Wears a Hat at Sarayburnu

As part of Turkey's modernization efforts, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk publicly wore a hat at Sarayburnu on August 24, 1924, symbolizing the adoption of Western attire and the abolition of traditional headwear.

1924-11-01

Atatürk's Speech on Relations with Soviet Russia

Atatürk emphasized the importance of friendly relations with the Soviet Russian Republic and highlighted it as a key aspect of Turkey's foreign policy.

1924-11-17

Establishment of the Progressive Republican Party (PRP)

The breakaway group from the Republican People's Party (CHP) established the Progressive Republican Party (PRP) with 29 deputies, marking the beginning of the first multi-party system in Turkey. The PRP had differing views on cultural revolution and secularism compared to the CHP.

1925-02-12

Revolt in eastern region

A revolt took place in the eastern region from February 12 to April 12, 1925.

1925-03-04

Law for Maintenance of Public Order

On March 4, 1925, the Law for Maintenance of Public Order was enacted, granting exceptional powers to the government.

1925-06-03

Suppression of Progressive Party

The Progressive Party was suppressed in June 1925.

1925-08-05

Atatürk divorces Latife

Atatürk and Latife divorced on August 5, 1925, after facing frequent arguments and challenges in their marriage.

1925-08-30

Atatürk's Kastamonu Speech on Religious Insignia

Atatürk introduced his view on religious insignia used outside places of worship in his Kastamonu speech. He emphasized the importance of knowledge, science, and civilization, stating that Turkey cannot be a country of sheiks, dervishes, and disciples.

1925-09-02

Decree Closing Sufi Orders and Converting Dervish Lodges to Museums

The government issued a decree closing down all Sufi orders and dervish lodges in Turkey. Atatürk ordered the conversion of dervish lodges into museums, such as the Mevlana Museum in Konya, as part of the secularization process.

1925-11-25

The Revolution of Headgear and Outfit

On 25 November 1925, Atatürk introduced the Revolution of Headgear and Outfit, aiming to modernize the attire and appearance of the Turkish society.

1925-11-30

Closing of Dervish Lodges and Shrines

Dervish lodges and shrines were closed on 30 November 1925 as part of Atatürk's social reforms to promote a more secular and modern society.

1925-12-17

Non-Aggression Pact with USSR

In response to the League of Nations Council granting a mandate for the Mosul region to Britain without Turkey's consent, Atatürk signed a non-aggression pact with the USSR to counter the situation.

1926-02-17

Abolition of Fez and Suppression of Religious Brotherhoods

Kemal announces the abolition of fez, suppression of religious brotherhoods, and closing of sacred tombs as places of worship in Kastamonu province.

1926-06-05

Treaty of Ankara

Turkey, Britain, and Iraq sign the Treaty of Ankara, agreeing on the Mosul issue.

1927-07-01

Mustafa Kemal revisits Istanbul

Mustafa Kemal visited Istanbul on July 1, 1927.

1927-08-26

Trial and execution of 'Young Turk' leaders in Ankara

In Ankara, the trial and execution of 'Young Turk' leaders and others took place on August 26, 1927.

1928-08-09

Introduction of New Turkish Alphabet

In 1928, Gazi Mustafa Kemal educated the public on the new Turkish alphabet as part of Turkey's reform process at Sarayburnu.

1928-10-20

Mustafa Kemal's historic speech to Congress of People's Party

On October 20, 1928, Mustafa Kemal delivered a significant speech to the Congress of People's Party, outlining key principles and goals for the party and the nation.

1928-11-01

Mustafa Kemal re-elected President of the Republic

On November 1, 1928, Mustafa Kemal was re-elected as the President of the Republic, showcasing his continued leadership and support among the people.

1928-12-15

First Turkish Newspaper in New Alphabet Published

On December 15, 1928, the first Turkish newspaper using the new alphabet was published, marking a significant milestone in the literacy reform initiated by Atatürk.

1929-01

National schools open to teach new alphabet

In January 1929, national schools in Turkey started teaching the new Latin alphabet, reflecting the government's commitment to modernize education.

1930-08-11

Multiparty Movement Initiated by Atatürk

Atatürk decided to try a multiparty movement once again by asking Fethi Okyar to establish a new party, the Liberal Republican Party, to protect secular reforms.

1930-08-12

Foundation of Free Party

On August 12, 1930, the Free Party was established in Turkey.

1930-11-17

Dissolution of Free Party

The Free Party was dissolved on November 17, 1930.

1930-12-23

Menemen Incident

A chain of violent incidents occurred in Menemen, instigated by Islamic fundamentalists rebelling against secular reforms, posing a serious threat.

1931-04-12

Establishment of Turkish Historical Society

In 1931, Gazi Mustafa Kemal founded the Turkish Historical Society.

1931-04-15

Foundation of Turkish Historical Society

The Turkish Historical Society was founded on April 15, 1931.

1931-05-04

Fourth Grand National Assembly and Mustafa Kemal's Re-election

On May 4, 1931, the Fourth Grand National Assembly took place where Mustafa Kemal was re-elected as the President of the Republic.

1932-02-25

Atatürk's Presidency for 15 Years

On February 25, 1932, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk had been serving as the President of Turkey for 15 years, during which he initiated significant modernization reforms in various aspects of society.

1933-02-01

Disturbances in Bursa over call to prayer in Turkish

In February 1933, there were disturbances in Bursa due to the decision to recite the call to prayer in Turkish instead of Arabic.

1933-10-29

Atatürk's 10th Year Speech

Atatürk delivered his 10th Year Speech on October 29, 1933, reflecting on the Independence War and the Founding of the Republic.

1934-02-25

Adoption of the Surname Law and Atatürk's Title

In February 1934, the Turkish national parliament adopted the surname law, giving Mustafa Kemal Atatürk the name 'Atatürk' which means 'Father of the Turks', symbolizing his role in the nation's history.

1934-06-16

Granting of the surname 'Atatürk'

The Grand National Assembly passes a law granting Gazi Mustafa Kemal the surname 'Atatürk'.

1934-06-21

The Surname Law

The Surname Law was enacted on 21 June 1934, leading to the adoption of surnames in Turkey. Mustafa Kemal was granted the surname Atatürk on 24 November 1934.

1934-09-26

Saffet Arıkan's Speech at 2nd Language Day

Saffet Arıkan, a politician and head of the Turkish Language Association, referred to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk as 'Our Great Leader Ata Türk Mustafa Kemal' in the opening speech of the 2nd Language Day in 1934.

1934-10-29

10th Anniversary of Turkish Republic

On October 29, 1934, Turkey celebrated the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Turkish Republic.

1934-11-08

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk Adopts Surname 'ATATÜRK'

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk officially adopted the surname 'ATATÜRK' on November 8, 1934, as bestowed by the Turkish Parliament.

1934-11-24

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk given the last name 'Atatürk'

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was granted the surname 'Atatürk' on November 24, 1934, through the law numbered 2587, which exclusively reserved the right to adopt this surname for him.

1934-12-05

Granting Full Political Rights to Women

On December 5, 1934, Turkey granted full political rights to women, emphasizing the importance of women's participation in democracy and social duties.

1935-04-18

Twelfth International Women Conference in Istanbul

The Twelfth International Women Conference took place in Istanbul, Turkey where Egyptian nationalist-feminist Huda Sha'arawi was elected as the vice-president of the International Women's Union.

1935-05-18

Signing of the Balkan Pact

The Balkan Pact was a mutual-defense agreement negotiated by Atatürk with Greece, Romania, and Yugoslavia to guarantee territorial integrity and political independence against potential threats from other Balkan states. It aimed to counter the aggressive foreign policies of fascist Italy and the alignment of Bulgaria with Nazi Germany.

1936-03-05

Ataturk Re-elected President of the Republic

In March 1936, Ataturk was re-elected as the President of the Republic during the Fifth Grand National Assembly.

1937-09

Visit of King Edward VIII to Ataturk in Istanbul

In September 1937, King Edward VIII visited Ataturk in Istanbul.

1938-03-11

Illness of Ataturk officially announced

On March 11, 1938, the illness of Ataturk was officially announced.

1938-11-10

Death of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the leader who launched a programme of revolutionary social and political reform to modernise Turkey, passed away on November 10, 1938.

1938-11-11

Succession of İsmet İnönü as President of Turkey

İsmet İnönü became the second President of Turkey after the passing of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, continuing the legacy of the Republic.

1938-11-19

Transfer of Atatürk's Coffin to Battleship Yavuz

On November 19, 1938, Atatürk's coffin, covered by a Turkish flag, was placed onto the battleship Yavuz after a procession from Dolmabahce Palace to Sarayburnu.

1938-11-20

Official Funeral of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's coffin was transported to Izmit and then to Ankara on a specially designated train, allowing mourners to pay tribute. An official funeral was held on November 21 in Ankara, with dignitaries from various countries in attendance.

1951

Law on Crimes Committed Against Atatürk

In 1951, the Democrat Party-controlled Turkish parliament led by Prime Minister Adnan Menderes issued a law outlawing insults to Atatürk's memory and destruction of objects representing him.

1953-11-10

Transfer of Atatürk's Remains to Anıtkabir

On November 10, 1953, the body of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was moved to Anıtkabir, his mausoleum in Ankara, as a symbolic gesture to honor his memory and legacy.

1981

UNESCO Declaration on Atatürk Centennial

In 1981, the United Nations and UNESCO honored Mustafa Kemal Atatürk during the centennial of his birth. He was recognized as a leader in the fight against colonialism and imperialism, promoting peace and cooperation among nations.

2010

Reporters Without Borders Objection to Turkish Laws

In 2010, the French-based NGO Reporters Without Borders objected to the Turkish laws protecting the memory of Atatürk, arguing that they contradict the current European Union standards of freedom of speech in news media.

2024-04-19

Debate on Ataturk's Legacy

The legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is still a topic of debate even 80 years after his death. Various perspectives and opinions are discussed regarding his impact on Turkish society and politics.

End of the Timeline
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk