Historical Events tagged with "turkey"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Foundation of Turkey's Grand National Assembly

April 23rd, 1920 104 years ago

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.

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Military & Warfare

Attack on Armenian Inhabitants of Shushi

March 22nd, 1920 104 years ago

Azeri and Turkish forces, along with Kurdish groups, launched an armed attack against the Armenian population of Shushi in Nagorno Karabakh. This coordinated military action aimed to assert control over the region amid the chaotic aftermath of World War I. Notably, the attack resulted in widespread violence and displacement of the local Armenian community, as these groups employed brutal tactics to achieve their objectives.

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Politics & Government

Atatürk Gathers Congress in Sivas

September 4th, 1919 105 years ago

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk convened a congress in Sivas to discuss the political situation and future of Anatolia and Thrace following World War I. This important meeting included representatives from various national organizations, all seeking to address the growing concerns over territorial integrity and sovereignty. The congress aimed to establish a unified response against foreign intervention and to reinforce the Turkish national movement.

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Military & Warfare

Atatürk's Arrival at Samsun for Independence

May 19th, 1919 105 years ago

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk landed in Samsun on the Anatolian Black Sea coast, marking the beginning of a pivotal movement for Turkish independence. His arrival was intended to support national resistance against occupation and to rally the Turkish population. Atatürk's subsequent leadership would prove crucial in organizing efforts against foreign domination. This moment set the stage for the liberation struggle that defined the early 20th century in Turkey.

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Politics & Government

Transition of Power in the Ottoman Empire

July 4th, 1918 106 years ago

Mehmed V, the last sultan of the Ottoman Empire to hold significant power, passed away, leading to the ascension of his brother, Mehmed VI. This event marked a pivotal shift in the leadership of the empire during its decline, as Mehmed VI became the new sultan. His reign began amid World War I, during a time when the empire was facing numerous challenges. The transfer of authority occurred in Istanbul, the empire's capital, and set the stage for the transformative periods that followed, including the disintegration of the Ottoman state and the rise of nationalist movements. Mehmed VI's rule would ultimately steer the empire through its final phases and contribute to the shaping of modern Turkey.

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Military & Warfare

British Troops Halted at First Battle of Gaza

March 26th, 1917 107 years ago

During the First Battle of Gaza, British forces attempted to capture the city of Gaza in modern-day Israel. They were met by a well-prepared defense of around 17,000 Ottoman Turkish troops, who successfully blocked their advance. The fighting was intense, culminating in a stalemate that left the British unable to secure the city despite their initial early successes. This battle marked a significant setback for British strategy in the region and delayed subsequent operations.

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Military & Warfare

Gallipoli Campaign Ends with Ottoman Victory

January 9th, 1916 109 years ago

The Battle of Gallipoli concluded with the evacuation of the last Allied forces, marking a significant victory for the Ottoman Empire. This campaign, waged during World War I, was aimed at securing a sea route to Russia and opening a new front against the Central Powers. The Allies, comprising primarily British and ANZAC troops, failed to gain crucial ground despite months of fighting. The withdrawal was necessitated by heavy losses and logistical challenges.

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Military & Warfare

Evacuation of Last Australian Troops from Gallipoli

December 20th, 1915 109 years ago

The last Australian troops were evacuated from the Gallipoli Peninsula, marking a significant moment in World War I. This evacuation was part of a larger Allied campaign that began earlier in the year. The troops left without incident, having faced severe conditions and heavy losses throughout the campaign. This strategic withdrawal aimed to conserve resources and personnel for future operations.

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Military & Warfare

Allied Diversionary Attack at Sari Bair

August 6th, 1915 109 years ago

The Allies launched a diversionary attack on Sari Bair, coordinating it with a significant landing of reinforcements at Suvla Bay. This operation aimed to divert Ottoman attention and resources from the ongoing Anzac forces' campaign. The Sari Bair offensive involved fierce fighting as Allied troops sought to gain a strategic foothold in the region, enhancing their position in the Gallipoli Campaign.

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