Military Memo Sent to Demirel Government

March 12th, 1971

March 12th, 1971

Military Memo Sent to Demirel Government
How Long Ago?

54 years, 3 days ago

Location

Ankara, Turkey

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Süleyman Demirel
Links & References
Tags

Military Memo Sent to Demirel Government

In response to political instability, the Turkish military delivered a memorandum to Prime Minister Süleyman Demirel’s government, urging reforms. Demirel's cabinet resigned shortly thereafter, leading to a period of increased military influence in Turkish politics. The memo indicated the military's dissatisfaction with governmental actions during a period of rising violence and unrest in the country.

Military memo addressed to Prime Minister Demirel

Resulted in the resignation of Demirel's government

Indicated military's role in Turkish politics

Highlight of political instability in the 1970s

What Happened?

The memorandum sent by the Turkish military to the government led by Prime Minister Süleyman Demirel marked a significant turning point in Turkey's political landscape. Amid rising political turmoil, violence, and unrest during the late 1960s and early 1970s, the military took a more assertive role in governance. The memorandum called for a reinforcement of democracy and a solution to increasing instability. The military expressed concerns regarding the effectiveness of Demirel’s policies, particularly in handling leftist and rightist clashes that had become commonplace, as well as the growing influence of extremist ideologies. Following the delivery of the memorandum, the Demirel government decided to resign instead of facing a potential coup. This moment underscored the omnipresence of the military in Turkish politics, as it indicated that the military could exert control over elected officials and influence governmental affairs. Shortly after this event, the country experienced a military intervention, which would lead to increased military governance and a national emphasis on stability and security, affecting future political developments in Turkey.

Why Does it Matter?

The event is crucial as it highlights the military's role as a powerful actor in Turkish politics, paving the way for a series of military interventions that would characterize Turkey’s political history. It set a precedent for future military influence, highlighting struggles between democracy and military oversight in governance.

Discover More Historic Events from March 12th

Health & Medicine

US Suspends Travel from Europe Amid COVID-19 Crisis

March 12th, 2020 5 years ago

In March 2020, President Donald Trump announced the suspension of travel from 26 European countries to the United States for a period of 30 days. This decision, aimed at curbing the rapid spread of COVID-19, took effect on March 13, 2020. It applied to countries within the Schengen Area, which includes most of Western Europe. The announcement raised significant concerns and led to widespread reactions across the globe, impacting thousands of travelers and escalating measures to contain the virus in the U.S. The focus was on protecting public health and managing the emerging pandemic.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

UK Parliament Rejects Revised EU Withdrawal Bill

March 12th, 2019 6 years ago

The House of Commons voted on a revised EU Withdrawal Bill that aimed to finalize the terms of the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union. A total of 149 Members of Parliament (MPs) voted against the bill, reflecting deep divisions within the government and Parliament over Brexit. This rejection came amidst ongoing debates concerning trade agreements, citizens' rights, and the impact on the Northern Ireland border. The outcome underscored the political challenges facing Prime Minister Boris Johnson's administration.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

US-Bangla Airlines Flight 211 Fatal Crash

March 12th, 2018 7 years ago

US-Bangla Airlines Flight 211 crashed while landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal. The aircraft, a Bombardier Dash 8 Q400, was approaching the airport when it lost control, resulting in a significant accident that killed 51 people and injured 20 others. The crash highlights challenges in aviation safety in the region and raised questions over air traffic management and pilot training.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Gas Explosion in East Harlem Kills Eight

March 12th, 2014 11 years ago

A gas explosion occurred in East Harlem, New York City, causing the destruction of two residential buildings and resulting in the tragic deaths of eight individuals. The explosion injured approximately 70 others and was attributed to a gas leak. The impact led to extensive emergency response efforts and highlighted ongoing concerns regarding infrastructure safety and maintenance.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Explosion

March 12th, 2011 14 years ago

A reactor explosion at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant occurred following the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, leading to significant radioactivity release. The event unfolded amid a series of reactor failures, prompting urgent evacuation orders and extensive emergency responses from authorities and international organizations.

Continue Reading
Economics & Industry

Bernie Madoff Pleads Guilty to Fraud Charges

March 12th, 2009 16 years ago

Bernard Madoff, an influential financier, pleaded guilty in New York to charges of conducting one of the largest frauds in Wall Street's history. Facing 11 charges, including securities fraud and investment advisor fraud, Madoff admitted to running a Ponzi scheme that defrauded thousands of investors of billions of dollars. The scheme, which began in the 1960s, unraveled dramatically, leading to significant scrutiny of financial regulations and Wall Street practices. His admission sent shockwaves across the financial world, raising questions about oversight.

Continue Reading