Foundation of Turkey's Grand National Assembly
April 23rd, 1920
April 23rd, 1920

How Long Ago?
104 years, 10 months, 19 days ago
Location
Ankara, Turkey
Category
Politics & Government
War/Conflict
Turkish War of Independence
People
- Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
- Refet Bele
- Ali Fuat Cebesoy
- Rauf Orbay
Links & References
Tags
Foundation of Turkey's Grand National Assembly
The Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) was founded in Ankara, establishing a legislative body that aimed to unify the country during a period of turmoil. The assembly rejected the authority of Sultan Mehmed VI, signaling a pivotal moment in Turkey's quest for sovereignty. The leaders intended to prepare a temporary constitution that would lay the foundation for a new legislative framework. This gathering, composed of various political factions and representatives from across Turkey, marked a significant step in the establishment of a democratic governance system.
TBMM founded to unify Turkey amidst chaos.
Assembly denounced Sultan Mehmed VI's government.
Temporary constitution aimed to establish governance.
Marked the start of Turkish War of Independence.
What Happened?
The Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) was inaugurated in Ankara as a response to the political chaos and occupation faced by the Turkish nation following World War I. As foreign powers partitioned the Ottoman Empire, Sultan Mehmed VI's government lost credibility and control. Realizing the need to establish a more representative and unified political structure, nationalist leaders convened the assembly. Leaders like Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and other prominent figures from various regions of Turkey aimed to create a voice for the people and counter the Sultan’s ineffective government. The assembly gathered in secrecy on April 23, 1920, amidst concerns of outside interference and opposition from loyalists to the Sultan. During the assembly's first sessions, members discussed the need for a government that truly represented the will of the Turkish people. Rejecting the Sultan's legitimacy, they declared their intention to establish a temporary constitution, outlining the principles of governance and civil rights. This foundational framework aimed to unite the fragmented nationalists and lay essential groundwork for the future Turkish Republic. The TBMM initiated immediate actions to build a new government and army, signaling the start of a broad campaign that would eventually lead to the Turkish War of Independence.
Why Does it Matter?
The formation of the Grand National Assembly was a crucial turning point in the establishment of modern Turkey. It marked the beginning of a shift from a monarchy to a republic, reshaping political discourse in the region. The assembly’s rejection of the Sultan's authority catalyzed the nationalist movement, setting the stage for future reforms and the eventual establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. The assembly's role symbolizes the transition toward democratic governance in a historically complex region.
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