October 29: In the Light of the Republic, the Nation's Everlasting Flame

Today, we commemorate October 29, one of the most meaningful days that witnessed the rebirth of a nation from its ashes. This day is not merely a date; it marks the crowning moment of a nation dedicated to freedom, independence, and modernity under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. The proclamation of the Republic is the long-awaited announcement of freedom and independence for a people who endured centuries of subjugation, countless hardships, and redrawn borders. It is the day when a nation, once severed from its roots, clings tightly to its land, culture, and future, rising anew with its deepest roots firmly planted.

This journey takes its inspiration not just from a commander but from a companion who led with love, belief, and wisdom—Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Not only did he win battles on the frontlines, but he also instilled hope and confidence in his people, guiding them in their struggle for independence with the heart of a sage. The light in Atatürk’s eyes was fueled by his profound love for his people, shaped by his faith and determination. This light became the powerful guidance that helped a nation stand tall, even in its darkest hours, as if feeling his steady hand on its shoulder. Mustafa Kemal was more than a leader; he was a companion who vowed to overcome every hardship with his people, a statesman who felt their victories in his heart, carried their pain in his soul, and nurtured his love for them within his own spirit.

The light in his eyes was a message of hope, sent not only to his own people but to the entire world. In his struggle for justice, independence, and human dignity, Atatürk not only led his people but also sent a message to all humanity, demonstrating that the freedom of one nation could spark the fire of independence in others. His deep love for his people and the depth of his thoughts reflected Atatürk’s unwavering trust and devotion to his nation. It was this bond that became the most powerful guide, freeing the Turkish nation not only from enemies but also from the shackles of the past, lifting them to the level of contemporary civilizations.

As Atatürk rewrote the fate of a nation, he harbored boundless faith and trust in its future. This confidence is the greatest legacy of an Atatürk who offered his hand at every opportunity, not only to rally a nation behind him but to lead them to walk in the light of their own will. His great revolution achieved not only a transformation for today but also laid the foundations for a free society where future generations could shape their destiny. The proclamation of the Republic is indeed the embodiment of this eternal guidance, this everlasting light.

From Childhood to Leader: The Emergence of Atatürk

Born in Thessaloniki in 1881, Mustafa Kemal’s childhood unfolded under the shadow of the Ottoman Empire’s final years, a time marked by defeats, territorial losses, and political uncertainty. Young Mustafa Kemal felt the deep pain of his land's struggles. Losing his father, Mr. Ali Rıza, at an early age, Mustafa endured this hardship with the boundless compassion and strong resolve of his mother, Zübeyde Hanım, who instilled in him both a respect for traditional values and a fervent love for freedom and homeland.

A significant turning point in young Mustafa’s life was the Şemsi Efendi School, an institution that broadened his worldview and encouraged independent thinking. The modern education he received there helped shape his intellectual foundation, pushing the boundaries of his mind. Even from a young age, Mustafa distinguished himself from his peers. He did not merely observe the world around him; he sought to understand the reasons underlying every event he witnessed. Learning and discovery became a passion for him.

His teachers noticed his remarkable intelligence and foresight, and they gave him the name “Kemal,” meaning "perfection," in admiration. This name came to symbolize his deep respect for knowledge, intellect, progress, and innovation. Mustafa combined his sharp intellect with his keen interest in subjects like mathematics and science, continuously expanding his journey of learning.

From childhood, Mustafa Kemal nurtured a spirit of inquiry, showing a keen interest not only in learning but also in questioning. His mind was analytical and curious, grasping cause-and-effect relationships, much like a scientist. However, one quality set him apart from a scientist alone: his profound love for the people. This compassion, which he carried from an early age, would transform him from an ordinary soldier into a statesman destined to change the fate of a nation.

The cosmopolitan nature of Thessaloniki and its diverse cultural influences allowed Mustafa Kemal to view the world from a broad perspective in his youth. He observed the social structures and ideologies of various nations and cultures, striving to understand them. These observations would later play a crucial role in shaping him as a leader with universal ideals. While observing the crises and stagnation of Ottoman society, he also witnessed the West’s advancements in science and progress.

Mustafa Kemal’s youth was a period during which he recognized the shortcomings of his society and developed a strong belief that his nation needed to rise to the level of contemporary civilizations. He not only observed the decline of the Ottoman Empire but sought to understand its causes, planning the steps needed to elevate his people and nation. The idea of changing a nation’s destiny began to take root in his mind when he was still a young student. This marked the first spark of a journey of leadership, filled with determination, knowledge, and courage—one that would shape not only his own life but the future of an entire nation.

These early observations and experiences laid the foundation for Atatürk to become the leader who would later propel the Turkish nation into the modern world through far-reaching reforms. For him, leadership was not merely about commanding or directing but about sharing a destiny with his people and working tirelessly for the prosperity and happiness of every individual within his nation.

The Dreams and Achievements of a Young Officer: From Gallipoli to Independence

Mustafa Kemal’s military genius and determination were shaped step by step on the battlefield, but his most glorious victory as a commander, etched in golden letters in Turkish history, was the Battle of Gallipoli. At Gallipoli, with both his strategies and the courage and hope he inspired in his soldiers, Mustafa Kemal wrote a legendary chapter, standing out not only as a commander but as a hero holding the fate of an entire nation in his hands. Facing the powerful fleets and armies of the Allied Powers, the Turkish forces sacrificed themselves to make Gallipoli impassable. At this critical point, Mustafa Kemal’s words became a powerful symbol of this sacrifice: “I do not order you to attack; I order you to die.”

These words were not just a command to his soldiers; they were a call that ignited the courage of all who might waver on the frontlines, fueling the Turkish people’s fire for independence. These words were a vow to protect the homeland to the last breath, marking a turning point in the Gallipoli campaign. They resonated deeply within the hearts of his soldiers, making them more determined and resolute against the enemy. Mustafa Kemal was known not only for his military acumen but also for his ability to inspire, to connect with the human spirit. It was his profound love for his homeland and unshakable belief in his nation’s independence that made Gallipoli unbreakable.

For Mustafa Kemal, victory at Gallipoli was only the beginning of the fight for independence. In his vision, Gallipoli was not just a battle won; it was part of a greater revolution, a step toward a future in which the entire nation would embrace freedom, modernity, and knowledge. While resisting at Gallipoli, even when faced with the superior numbers of the enemy, his passion for independence proved once again the strength of the Turkish people. Yet Mustafa Kemal believed this struggle was not merely a defense; it was a march toward building a free future for the nation.

On May 19, 1919, Mustafa Kemal landed in Samsun, sparking the first flame of the independence movement in the heart of Anatolia. This was not simply a journey; it was the beginning of a march that would lead the nation to salvation. The occupied lands of Anatolia found renewed hope with his call. In this journey that began in Samsun, Mustafa Kemal united with his people; he listened to their troubles, shared their suffering, and organized them to prepare for the fight for independence. Through the congresses in Amasya, Erzurum, and Sivas, he raised awareness and spread the flame of independence throughout the country.

Mustafa Kemal’s unwavering determination in the fight for independence led him to victories such as Sakarya and the Great Offensive. The Battle of Sakarya became one of the strongest symbols of national resistance. With the words “There is no line of defense, only a surface of defense, and that surface is the whole country,” he offered a strategy that broadened the front. This signified the entire nation moving into a unified defense. His brilliance at Sakarya strengthened the trust of people all over Anatolia in him. Under Mustafa Kemal’s guidance, the Turkish nation demonstrated a powerful resistance not only to protect their land but also their future and independence.

Following the Sakarya victory, Mustafa Kemal initiated the Great Offensive to drive the enemy out of Anatolia entirely. This offensive, beginning on August 26, 1922, quickly culminated in victory, turning the Turkish people’s hopes for independence into reality. The Turkish army’s entry into Izmir returned the Anatolian lands to the Turkish nation. Mustafa Kemal’s order, “Soldiers, your first goal is the Mediterranean—forward!” marked the triumphant march that secured Turkey’s independence.

Throughout this journey, Mustafa Kemal distinguished himself not only with his military genius but with the confidence he instilled in his people and his desire to bring them a brighter future. He was not merely a commander who won battles; he was a leader who, hand in hand with his nation, laid the foundation for the future of a people. For the Turkish nation, Gallipoli and the War of Independence were not merely military victories; they were symbols of the awakening of a nation, an eternal fire for independence, justice, and freedom.

Mustafa Kemal’s journey from Gallipoli to the War of Independence was not simply a victory over enemy armies; it was a turning point where the Turkish people seized control of their destiny and wrote their own history. These victories transformed Mustafa Kemal’s dreams into reality, laying the foundations of the Turkish Republic and providing the Turkish nation with a powerful guidance on the path to freedom, independence, and modernity.

The Resistance Beginning with the Battle of Sakarya: A Victory That Crowned the Turkish Nation’s Struggle

The Battle of Sakarya entered history as a symbol of the purest and highest form of resistance in the Turkish nation’s journey toward independence. This was a victory in which the Turkish army stood with all its might against a numerically superior enemy, sacrificing lives to protect every inch of their homeland. For Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, this battle was not just a military struggle; Sakarya was a fight for the nation’s very existence. Addressing the army with the words, “There is no line of defense, only a surface of defense, and that surface is the whole country,” Mustafa Kemal emphasized that they needed to defend not merely a front but the entire land. This was more than a battlefield command; it was a manifesto, showcasing the nation’s will and determination.

This strategic and meaningful statement became a turning point in the Turkish people’s struggle for independence. The order to defend every corner of the homeland was not only a military tactic; it was a conviction that became embedded in the nation’s spirit. When devising his war strategies, Mustafa Kemal sought not just to defeat the enemy but to instill hope, courage, and the fire of resistance in his nation’s heart. For him, independence was not merely a victory but a reinforcement of his people’s will for freedom. With Anatolia under occupation in every corner, his words inspired the Turkish people to rise, turning their will into the story of Sakarya’s heroic resistance.

The Battle of Sakarya was won through the relentless fight of the Turkish army and the resistance of the people. Every soldier, every citizen learned from this battle what it truly meant to defend their homeland as a united whole. Under Mustafa Kemal’s command, the Turkish army continued the fight with great determination and discipline, applying wise and effective tactics to drive the enemy out of Anatolia. He was not just a commander but a guiding figure to every member of his nation. The victory at Sakarya was etched in history as a testament to the strategic genius combined with the nation’s unwavering resolve.

Following the resistance shown at Sakarya, it was time to take the final step for independence. For the Turkish nation, this battle was the opening of the doors to freedom, a struggle crowned by the Great Offensive under Mustafa Kemal’s leadership. On the morning of August 26, 1922, the Turkish army launched the Great Offensive, the final move in the fight for independence. This offensive was not just a military operation; it was a sacred march to overcome the last obstacles on the path to independence. Under Mustafa Kemal’s command, Turkish soldiers advanced all the way to Izmir, bringing the message of freedom to every corner of the homeland. September 9, 1922, marked the liberation of Izmir, a day when the Turkish nation drove the enemy entirely from its lands and reclaimed its freedom.

The successful conclusion of the Great Offensive was a victory for the Turkish nation’s will and Mustafa Kemal’s leadership. With the liberation of Izmir from the enemy, Anatolia was now set on a path to an independent future. For Mustafa Kemal, victory was not merely the removal of the enemy; it was the attainment of his people’s independence. This victory represented the nation’s most significant step away from the chains of the past and toward a modern future. The saga of resistance from Sakarya to the Great Offensive stands as a gift to history, showcasing the Turkish people’s unwavering belief in freedom, their dedication under Atatürk’s leadership, and their sacrifices in the pursuit of independence.

The Proclamation of the Republic and a Reborn Turkey

Following victory, a new era was beginning for Turkey. The centuries-old rule of the Ottoman Empire had ended, and the foundation of a system where the people held their own sovereignty was being established. On October 29, 1923, with the proclamation of the Republic, Turkey declared its independence not only on the battlefield but also within the structure of the state itself. This Republic was more than a mere change in governance; it was the Turkish nation’s assertion of its right to shape its own destiny, the empowerment of the people, and the construction of their future with their own hands. With the establishment of the Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk gave a nation the opportunity to be reborn, awakening the boundless potential within. By declaring, “Sovereignty belongs unconditionally to the nation,” he expressed not only a call to action but also his profound devotion, trust, and love for the Turkish people. These words became the immortal manifesto of the Republic.

As the Foundations of the Republic Were Laid, Atatürk’s Vision for the Future

While establishing the foundations of the Republic, Atatürk implemented a series of reforms not only with the present in mind but with a vision for the coming centuries, aiming to elevate his nation to the level of modern civilizations. Rather than resting on the laurels of victory, he embarked on a vigorous campaign to transform Turkey into a modern state and to equip its people with knowledge and science. He enacted profound changes across all areas, from education and law to the arts, social life, economy, and public services. Each of these reforms was a concrete reflection of Atatürk’s vision to rebuild Turkey. One notable step was the adoption of the Latin alphabet, which rapidly increased literacy rates and eased access to knowledge. This was not merely a change in script; it was an invitation for Turkey to speak the same language as the world, accelerating its integration with science and technology.

Atatürk’s principle of secularism led to the separation of religious and state affairs, creating a freer, more scientific approach to thought. Secularism was one of his most vital reforms, fostering not only freedom of belief but also paving the way for science, reason, and modern ideas. Thanks to this principle, Turkey adopted a governance structure free from religious constraints, adaptable to the needs of the modern world. Advocating that religion should reside in the individual’s conscience, Atatürk embraced a perspective that valued personal freedom and advanced society.

With the Proclamation of the Republic, Atatürk Transformed Not Only the Political Structure of a Nation But Also Elevated the Lives of Its People

Alongside the proclamation of the Republic, Atatürk went beyond merely changing the political structure; through social and cultural revolutions, he raised the standard of living to a more modern and humane level. His steps toward women’s rights were among the most significant examples of these reforms. By granting women the right to vote and be elected, Atatürk strengthened the position of Turkish women in society, enabling them to become equal members of public life. Women’s active participation in education, work, and politics became one of the Republic’s greatest achievements. Honoring the place of women in society, he famously stated, “The Turkish woman is worthy not of being dragged on the ground but of rising to the skies on shoulders,” expressing his faith, respect, and importance placed upon women.

He Implemented the Civil Code to Enable Women to Be Active Members of Society

Through the Civil Code, women gained equal rights in family life, fostering a profound sense of equality throughout society. For Atatürk, the contribution of women to society was not merely a matter of rights; it was a value that elevated the nation’s level of civilization and strengthened it.

These Fundamental Reforms Not Only Modernized Turkey but Also Strengthened the People’s Will to Govern Themselves

The economic initiatives, industrial, and agricultural reforms launched by Atatürk formed the cornerstones of this modern state structure. To ensure that the Turkish economy could stand on its own and free itself from foreign dependency, Industry and Economy Congresses were organized. The decisions made at these congresses encouraged local production, led to the establishment of new factories, and propelled the country into development initiatives. Atatürk always advised his nation to trust in its own resources and to believe in the prosperity of their own land over foreign capital.

The Proclamation of the Republic and the Reforms That Followed Were Not Just About Breaking From the Past, but Embracing a New Future for Turkey

The Republic represented the greatest step toward building a society based on freedom, justice, and equality for the Turkish nation. Atatürk’s reforms provided a roadmap, not only for the Turkish people but also for all humanity, demonstrating how a modern society should be structured. By entrusting the will of a nation to its people, he instilled in them self-confidence and gifted them the Republic as a symbol of this newfound strength.

As we move beyond the 100th anniversary of the Republic, the Turkish Republic, built on Atatürk’s foundations, continues to uphold his legacy and grows stronger with each passing day. This Republic is more than just a system of governance; it is an ideal where the people’s will is realized, where freedom, reason, and science guide the nation toward self-discovery. Atatürk expressed his faith in the Republic’s endurance and the nation’s strength with his famous words: “One day my mortal body will turn to dust, but the Republic of Turkey will endure forever.”

These words have been passed down through generations as a symbol of his profound love, trust, and unwavering belief in the Turkish nation. The Republic remains an immortal legacy, embodying the Turkish people’s respect for the past and their hope and faith in the future.

Atatürk’s Vision of Universal Peace: Peace at Home, Peace in the World

As the leader of a nation that had paid a heavy price in war and devastation, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk extended his deep belief in peace beyond his own people, elevating it to a universal ideal. Atatürk’s famous phrase, “Peace at home, peace in the world,” reflects his desire to achieve peace not only within Turkey’s borders but throughout the entire world. This powerful expression embodies his contribution to world peace, the humanitarian aspect of his leadership, and his message of friendship to all nations. It demonstrates that the Turkish people, under his guidance, pursued peace and harmony not only for themselves but for all humanity. For Atatürk, peace was not a political tool but an essential value for the collective prosperity and happiness of all societies and humankind.

While Atatürk saw war as a necessary option only in a nation’s struggle for survival, he argued that peace should be upheld above all else. Having witnessed the destructive effects of war during the decline of the Ottoman Empire, and having experienced the exhaustion of World War I and the hardships of the War of Independence, he deeply understood the need for peace. Thus, “Peace at home, peace in the world” was not merely a diplomatic approach but a worldview shaped by the lessons he gained throughout his life and leadership. He envisioned a world ruled by peace, believing this could only be achieved if states and nations maintained relationships founded on mutual respect.

After securing Turkey’s independence, Atatürk made a point to cultivate friendly relations on the international stage. In his dealings with world leaders, he adopted an approach rooted in sincerity, mutual respect, and understanding, emphasizing the importance of respecting each state’s internal affairs. This reflects his dedication to diplomacy, his faith in world peace, and his respect for every nation’s right to choose its own path. He aspired to establish the Republic of Turkey not just within geographical borders but on a foundation of peace, justice, and human rights.

Atatürk’s Vision of Peace: A Philosophy That Defined His Legacy

Atatürk’s vision of peace was a philosophy that secured his place not only as a military victor but also as a leader whose ideas served humanity. As a leader who had achieved victory in the War of Independence, he deeply understood the sorrows of war and championed peace for the benefit of both his country and the world. Driven by a powerful commitment to peace, Atatürk established Turkey as a country that prioritized reconciliation in resolving regional disputes. Thus, Turkey came to be recognized not only for its military strength but for its dedication to peace. In this context, he fostered international cooperation for sustained peace through regional alliances like the Balkan Pact and the Saadabad Pact.

Atatürk regarded the devastation of war as an unforgettable lesson and emphasized to his people and the world that peace is an indispensable value for humanity. His vision of peace showed that he was not just a soldier but a thinker who learned from the destructive consequences of war. Expressing his disapproval of war, Atatürk famously stated, “Unless a nation’s life faces peril, war is a crime,” underscoring his deep commitment to peace. The respectful relationships he built with world leaders showcased his success in diplomacy and his sense of responsibility toward humanity.

To ensure lasting peace, Atatürk advocated for universal values, promoting the advancement of societies in every field—from education and the arts to economics and social life. For him, peace was not only a treaty between states but also a harmony to be established among individuals within a society. Peace, in Atatürk’s view, was the most precious value, essential for people to live together in mutual respect, creating a world worth passing on to future generations. Thus, his principle of “Peace at home, peace in the world” conveyed the necessity of safeguarding peace at every level, from individuals to societies, and from nations to the global community.

Today, Atatürk’s peace principle remains a cornerstone of Turkey’s foreign policy, securing Turkey’s reputation as a peaceful and conciliatory nation on the international stage. Through his guiding principle of “Peace at home, peace in the world,” Atatürk made a call to all nations, presenting a vision of a world at peace as an achievable, universal goal. For Atatürk, peace was not just an objective but the key to a future where humanity could live in tranquility and happiness, and his commitment to peace continues to inspire people around the world.

Atatürk’s Relationship with His People and His Legacy

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk established a deep and heartfelt connection with his people, earning an everlasting place in the hearts of the Turkish nation. He was a leader who was always among his people, attentive to their struggles, listening to their dreams, ideals, and concerns. He saw himself not as superior to the people but as one of them, respecting their will and treating each individual as a companion.

Atatürk’s sincere dialogues with villagers, workers, students, women, and children revealed not only his greatness as a leader but also his genuine love for his people. His leadership style was not that of a distant authority figure looking down on his people but of a guide who walked alongside them, offering support. To Atatürk, every person from every village or neighborhood represented a cause close to his heart. Whether it was a farmer with a problem or a young person with a new idea, he would listen to them with the same warmth and attentiveness.

Frequently visiting villages, towns, and schools, Atatürk demonstrated his presence among his people and considered it his duty to listen directly to their concerns. When visiting villages, he would help the field laborers, work alongside them, and show the value of hard work in the fields. For him, the prosperity of the nation meant the well-being of farmers, workers, students—every segment of society. His respect for the people helped each individual feel like an integral part of the Republic.

In his warm conversations with villagers, Atatürk would look for ways to improve their livelihoods and economic conditions, while also exploring new ways to spread education, knowledge, and science. The light in his eyes when speaking to a village teacher showed how much he valued educators. He believed that the enlightenment of a nation could only be achieved through education, which is why he always supported young people, seeing them as the architects of the future. Once, he told young people, “You are the bright face of the future,” expressing his faith in their ideals and dreams for a better tomorrow.

Atatürk’s Dialogue with Women

Atatürk’s interactions with women were filled with deep respect and admiration. Believing that women should participate actively in all areas of social life, he introduced reforms that granted women equal rights in education, politics, professional life, and social life. In his conversations with women, he regarded them as the foundation of society and placed special importance on their development and education.

Atatürk’s Approach to Workers, Farmers, and Villagers

Atatürk approached workers, farmers, and villagers with the same sincerity and sought to establish direct connections with every segment of society. He emphasized at every opportunity that the state should serve its people, believing that serving the public was the government’s most fundamental duty. He was a leader who listened to the demands of his people and worked tirelessly day and night for their welfare. To him, the highest honor was the place he held in the hearts of his people. He understood that the most enduring legacy was his passion for service to his nation and the warm relationship he established with his people.

Atatürk’s Profound Love and Dedication for His People

Atatürk’s deep love and dedication for his people demonstrate that his leadership was not only about military victories but about winning hearts. His faith in the Turkish nation and his trust in their potential made him immortal in the hearts of his people. Atatürk’s legacy is not solely about legal reforms and revolutions; it is also this unique bond he forged with his people. This bond is one of the strongest connections that solidify the foundations of the Republic and resonate in the heart of the nation. The legacy he left is not only the foundation of a state but a renewal of the nation’s self-confidence and belief in its own power. As both a leader and a companion, Atatürk holds an eternal place in the heart of the Turkish nation.

The Significance of October 29: Why It Matters So Much

October 29 is not just a date; it is an immortal monument to the struggle for independence, the unwavering will of the people, and the ideal of a modern Turkey shaped by the vision of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This day marks the beginning of a path dedicated to freedom, where the Turkish nation rejected living under foreign rule and chose to build its destiny with its own hands. The right gained under Atatürk’s leadership symbolizes unparalleled determination and perseverance in world history. October 29 is a milestone in which a nation rose from its ashes, established its sovereignty, and embraced the ideal of reaching the level of modern civilization. Every year, when Republic Day is celebrated, not only are the victories of the past remembered but also the values carried into the future; because the Republic is the guide along which every new generation walks in the light of freedom and independence.

The Republic entrusted to us by Atatürk is the most powerful message he and the Turkish nation have sent to the world: freedom, justice, and peace. The Republic of Turkey, established by the will of its people, is the symbol of a nation whose passion for independence has become immortal. The Republic is more than just a system of governance; it is an ideal that grants each member of the nation the right to self-realization, to live freely, and to express themselves. This ideal goes beyond the structure of a state; it is a symbol of the deep-rooted love for freedom in the heart of every individual in the Turkish nation.

The Republic: Not Just an Achievement, but a Will That Lives On

The Republic is not only an achievement; it is the will of the people who keep it alive and renew its meaning with each generation. October 29 is one of the most significant days when young and old gather with pride, hope, and enthusiasm, embracing their own will as a sacred value. This Republic reflects the Turkish nation’s desire and success in living together as a free society in peace and harmony. Today, the Republic of Turkey is an inspiration not only for its own citizens but for all nations fighting for independence.

With the proclamation of the Republic, the Turkish nation’s passion for freedom and independence shone like a light to the world. As Atatürk said, “The Republic, above all, is the guardian of the defenseless,” for the Republic derives its strength from the people, providing assurance even to its most vulnerable citizens. This is Atatürk’s most valuable legacy to his people. Each year, Republic Day is not only a tribute to the past but also a salute to the future, a pledge that future generations will uphold and honor these values.

The Light of the Republic: A Song of Freedom That Will Never Fade

The light of the Republic symbolizes the Turkish nation’s unquenchable passion for independence and its song of freedom that will live on forever. This song of freedom is a reflection of the Turkish nation’s enduring flame of independence throughout its history. When Atatürk established the Republic, he did not just build a state; he set a goal for his nation to reach the level of modern civilizations. This goal shapes not only our present but also our future, guiding our children toward a tomorrow filled with freedom and honor.

Today, as we deeply feel the meaning of October 29 once again, we better understand the greatness of the legacy Atatürk left us. The 101st anniversary of the Republic is not only a celebration of victory but an unwavering symbol of a nation’s faith in its own will and independence. This holiday is the Turkish nation’s century-old song of freedom, growing more elevated each year as the embodiment of an enduring will, determination, and love.

The Republic has not only gifted us our past but has also given us a freer, fairer, and happier tomorrow. As we honor this sacred value that blends the determination, will, and love of the Turkish nation, we once again see the strength of the light the Republic has bestowed upon us. Atatürk’s legacy continues to shine, not only for Turkey but as a light inspired by universal values, illuminating all of humanity.

Happy 101st anniversary of the Republic; long live the Republic of Turkey, and long live the immortal legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk!