The Turkish Great Offensive Against Greece
August 26th, 1922
August 26th, 1922

How Long Ago?
102 years, 6 months, 17 days ago
Location
Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
Greco-Turkish War (1919–1922)
People
- Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
- Ali Fuat Cebesoy
- İzzet Pasha
- Fevzi Çakmak
Links & References
Tags
The Turkish Great Offensive Against Greece
The Turkish army launched the Great Offensive, known in Turkey as Büyük Taarruz, which commenced the operation to reclaim territories previously occupied by Greek forces following World War I. Over several days, Turkish troops executed a series of coordinated attacks that effectively overwhelmed major Greek defensive positions, particularly around the city of Afyonkarahisar, marking a pivotal moment in the Greco-Turkish War. This offensive not only aimed at regaining lost territories but also sought to restore national integrity and pride for the Turkish people amidst the fragmentation of the Ottoman Empire.
Marked a turning point in the Greco-Turkish War
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk played a key military leadership role
Led to significant territorial gains for Turkey
Resulted in the population exchange between Greeks and Turks
What Happened?
The Great Offensive, or Büyük Taarruz, was a decisive military campaign waged by the Turkish Nationalist forces during the Greco-Turkish War, lasting from 1919 to 1922. Under the command of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his generals, the Turkish army strategically coordinated attacks against the Greek forces, which had occupied parts of western Anatolia following the restrictions imposed on Turkey after World War I. The operation was meticulously planned, focusing on surprise, speed, and the element of cost-effective warfare. It was characterized by the mobilization of thousands of Turkish troops supported by artillery and infantry units prepared for a large-scale offensive.The Turkish army's offensive began in late August 1922, with units advancing rapidly towards key Greek positions, including the city of Afyonkarahisar. The Turkish troops decisively overwhelmed Greek defenses through relentless attacks, leading to significant territorial gains and high casualties among Greek forces. This phase of the war is noteworthy for its speed and the effective use of the Turkish cavalry, which played a crucial role in flanking maneuvers and disruptive tactics against the more static Greek defensive lines. The campaign culminated in the recapture of Smyrna, a city with a large Greek population that faced dire consequences as the tide of war shifted dramatically in favor of the Turkish Nationalists.The aftermath of the Great Offensive had lasting consequences for the region. It not only led to the establishment of a new Turkish republic but also saw the onset of population exchanges between Greeks and Turks, shaping the demographic landscape of modern Turkey. The successful outcome of the offensives reinforced nationalistic sentiments among the Turkish populace while effectively diminishing the Greek presence in Anatolia.
Why Does it Matter?
The Great Offensive significantly altered the course of Turkish history and laid the foundation for the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. It is often seen as a unifying moment for Turkish nationalism, showcasing military efficacy and constitutional legitimacy. The event served as a catalyst for international recognition of Turkey's sovereignty while also contributing to the broader geopolitical landscape in the region, leading to significant population shifts and lasting ethnic tensions.
Discover More Historic Events from August 26th
Jacksonville Shooting Claims Three Lives
In Jacksonville, Florida, a shooting occurred resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The incident took place exactly five years after the Jacksonville Landing shooting, heightening sensitivities surrounding gun violence in the area. Law enforcement responded to multiple calls about shots fired and quickly arrived at the scene to secure the area and assist the victims. The community was left in shock as they grappled with the ongoing issues related to safety and gun-related crimes.
Continue ReadingSuicide Bombing at Kabul Airport
A suicide bombing occurred at Hamid Karzai International Airport during the chaotic evacuation effort from Afghanistan, killing 13 U.S. military personnel and at least 169 Afghan civilians. The incident highlighted the dangers surrounding the Kabul airlift as thousands sought to flee the Taliban's resurgence. The attack was attributed to ISIS-K, a local offshoot of the Islamic State, indicating the complexities of security in the region amid the Taliban's takeover.
Continue ReadingMass Shooting at Jacksonville Gaming Tournament
A shooting occurred during a Madden NFL '19 tournament in Jacksonville, Florida, resulting in three fatalities and eleven injuries. The tournament, part of a competitive gaming environment, was held at a local arcade. The shooter opened fire, targeting participants and attendees, before taking his own life. Eyewitnesses reported chaos, as attendees ran for safety amid the gunfire.
Continue ReadingU.S. Journalists Killed on Live Broadcast
Two journalists, Alison Parker and Adam Ward, were shot and killed during a live news segment in Moneta, Virginia. The assailant, Vester Lee Flanagan II, a former employee of the TV station, targeted his former colleagues while they reported on a local feature story about tourism. Parker and Ward were conducting their live broadcast when they were approached by Flanagan, who opened fire, leading to their untimely deaths. The incident shocked the journalism community and raised alarms over workplace violence and gun control.
Continue ReadingPublication of the Jay Report on Child Exploitation
The Jay Report was released in response to investigations into child sexual exploitation in Rotherham, England. Authored by Professor Alexis Jay, the report shed light on the systematic abuse that occurred between 1997 and 2013, with approximately 1,400 children affected. The findings pointed to significant failings within the local authorities, police, and social services, highlighting a culture of denial and a lack of accountability that allowed the abuse to persist. The publication prompted widespread outrage and a renewed focus on child protection policies across the UK.
Continue ReadingBoeing 787 Dreamliner earns EASA and FAA certification
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner received certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), marking a significant milestone for Boeing. This all-new commercial aircraft, known for its groundbreaking use of composite materials and fuel efficiency, was developed to enhance passenger comfort and reduce operational costs for airlines. The certification signifies that Boeing met rigorous safety and performance standards, paving the way for the Dreamliner's entry into commercial service. Airlines worldwide awaited the Dreamliner's debut as it set new benchmarks in aviation technology.
Continue Reading