May 19, 1919, marks the day when Atatürk landed in the Black Sea port of Samsun to start the War of Independence. This is the date when the Turkish nation had a say over its own fate and its country. It constitutes a fresh and powerful start for the Republic of Turkey and is also the symbol of the national awakening. Atatürk’s travelling to Samsun with the aim of liberating the Turkish nation and setting up a new state, created a deep impact on Turkish and world history. Less than a year later the Turkish Grand National Assembly was established and a few years later the Republic of Turkey was born as a new nation.
Atatürk had a vision for Turkey and he set about reforming her. His vision of a pro-western, secular and democratic state under the rule of law quickly became reality. President John F. Kennedy said, “The name Atatürk reminds mankind of the historical accomplishments of one of the greatest men of this century. His leadership gave inspiration to the Turkish nation, farsightedness in the understanding of the modern world, and courage and power as a military leader.”
Today we commemorate May 19 as a very significant day in the history of Turkey. On this day a great leader began his journey, a vision became reality. A vision coupled with determination can lay the roots for a great future. We as Turkish-Americans of Michigan must take this example and continue our determined goal of promoting the Turkish heritage and culture in Michigan and the United States.
As Atatürk once said “Victory is for those who can say ‘Victory is mine.’ Success is for those who can begin saying ‘I will succeed’ and say ‘I have succeeded’ in the end.”
Once again happy “19 Mayıs Atatürk’ü Anma, Gençlik ve Spor Bayramı!”