The Past as a Mirror to the Future
While the European Union (EU) may appear primarily as an economic union, it is, in reality, a union of civilizations. Particularly in Turkey today, it symbolizes progress, development, and modern life. When countries join the EU, they bring their histories and cultures, turning it into a melting pot of diverse backgrounds. Reflecting on the War of Independence holds significance not only in the history of the Republic of Turkey but also in European history. The yearning for independence and, more crucially, the right to independence, which is at the core of this war, should be remembered.
As human beings, it is our duty to carry the values of the past into the future. The initial three steps of the Republic of Turkey should be eternally remembered, and their fundamental ideas should be passed down to future generations. The struggles for independence and freedom in Amasya, Sivas, and Erzurum need to be studied and internalized. In a genuine civilization, there is no place for
Amasya Erzurum Sivas
Key Moments in Turkey’s War of Independence
On June 22nd, 1919, in Amasya, and later on September 4th, 1919, in Sivas, pivotal events unfolded, shaping the course of the War of Independence in Turkey. The significance of these moments is underscored by the adage, “He who knows not where he comes from, cannot know where he is going.”
The backdrop is the aftermath of the Ottoman Empire’s decline, culminating in its fragmentation by foreign forces. In this turbulent period, Mustafa Kemal emerges as the voice of a resolute nation unwilling to succumb to the partition of its land.
As Greek forces occupy Western Anatolia, Mustafa Kemal takes swift action. His objective is to establish military and civil administrations Kazdag, rallying support to resist the conditions imposed by the Mondros Armistice and foreign occupation. Arriving in Amasya on June 12th, 1919, he communicates with various cities in Anatolia and Thrace
Kazdag
A Tapestry of Mythology, Beauty Contests, and Olive Oil Miracles
Mount Ida, extending 40 km in the east-west direction in the North Aegean region, holds the ‘firsts’ of civilization history on its breezy slopes. Nestled in the north of Edremit Bay, this lofty peak is named Ida, meaning “with many springs” in mythology. The temple of Zeus Gargaron is situated on Ida, where gods descended from Mount Olympus due to the area’s breathtaking beauty.
The First Beauty Contest in History
In a mythical feast organized at Olympus The Past as a Mirror to the Future, “the goddess of discord,” not invited, leaves an apple marked “to be offered to the most beautiful.” The goddesses, curious about who will receive the apple, report the matter to Zeus. Aware that offering the apple to his wife Hera would anger the other goddesses, Zeus entrusts the handsome shepherd Paris