Şahin Bey

Şahin Bey (1877 – 28 March 1920) was a Turkish Kaymakam (district governor) and military officer renowned for his resistance against the French forces during the French occupation of Cilicia following World War I, particularly in the defense of Antep (modern-day Gaziantep).

Şahin Bey, whose real name was Mehmet Sait, was born in Pljevlja (Taslica), Ottoman Empire (present-day Montenegro). He graduated from the Ottoman Military Academy and served in various military posts, including in Yemen and the Balkan Wars. After the Ottoman Empire's defeat in World War I, he was assigned to the region of Antep to organize resistance against the advancing French troops.

As the Kaymakam of the Kilise district, he organized and led local militias in defense of the strategically important road between Antep and Kilis, preventing French reinforcements and supplies from reaching Antep. His determined defense significantly hampered the French efforts to consolidate their control over the region.

Şahin Bey was killed in action on March 28, 1920, near the village of Elmalı during a fierce battle against the French forces. His bravery and sacrifice inspired the people of Antep to continue their resistance, which eventually led to the city being awarded the title of "Gazi" (Veteran) by the Turkish Grand National Assembly in 1921.

Şahin Bey is regarded as a national hero in Turkey, symbolizing the spirit of resistance and the struggle for independence during the Turkish War of Independence. Schools, streets, and other public places are named after him to commemorate his contributions to the country. His legacy is remembered through various monuments and historical accounts that highlight his crucial role in the defense of Antep against foreign occupation.