19 Mayıs
19 Mayıs (English: May 19th) is a national holiday in Turkey commemorating the arrival of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in Samsun on May 19, 1919, which is considered the beginning of the Turkish War of Independence. The day is officially designated as "Atatürk'ü Anma, Gençlik ve Spor Bayramı" (Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day).
Significance: May 19, 1919, marks a crucial turning point in Turkish history. Following the defeat of the Ottoman Empire in World War I and the subsequent occupation of Turkish territories by Allied forces, the arrival of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in Samsun provided the impetus for the organization of a national resistance movement. He was tasked with inspecting the region, but instead began mobilizing forces to resist the occupation and establish an independent Turkish nation.
Celebrations: The holiday is celebrated throughout Turkey with various events and activities, particularly focusing on youth and sports. These celebrations often include:
- Parades and ceremonies: Schools, sports clubs, and other organizations participate in parades and ceremonies, often featuring displays of Turkish flags, banners, and images of Atatürk.
- Sports events: Various sports competitions and demonstrations are held across the country.
- Concerts and performances: Concerts, folk dances, and other cultural performances are organized to commemorate the holiday.
- Wreath-laying ceremonies: Wreaths are laid at Atatürk monuments throughout the country, particularly at Anıtkabir, Atatürk's mausoleum in Ankara.
- School activities: Schools organize special programs, including speeches, poems, and theatrical performances, to educate students about the significance of the day and the life and legacy of Atatürk.
Historical Context: The events of May 19, 1919, directly led to the Turkish War of Independence (1919-1922), which ultimately resulted in the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Turkish people in their struggle for independence and the importance of national unity. Atatürk dedicated this day to the youth of Turkey, seeing them as the guardians of the nation's future.