Summary
Highlights
The video introduces the Turkish War of Independence (1920-1922), also known as the War of Liberation, emphasizing its dual nature as a struggle for both independence and sovereignty. It differentiates the fronts of the War of Independence (Eastern, Western, Southern) from those of World War I, highlighting that the former indicate direction, while the latter signify locations.
The War of Independence involved battles against external enemies (Armenians in the East, Italians, French, and British in the South, and Greeks in the West) for independence, and an internal struggle against the Sultanate for national sovereignty. This dual fight for independence and sovereignty made the Turkish Revolution a global example.
The Eastern Front was the first to be opened by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM), with Kazım Karabekir Pasha as the commander of the 15th Army Corps. Karabekir swiftly defeated the Armenian forces, leading to the signing of the Treaty of Gümrü. This treaty was significant as it marked the first recognition of the TBMM by a foreign state, the first international agreement signed by the TBMM, and the first to invalidate the Treaty of Sèvres.
The Southern Front saw resistance primarily from civilian forces (Kuvay-i Milliye) against French-backed Armenian militias, as there was no regular army deployed there by the TBMM. Cities like Maraş, Antep, and Urfa bravely fought for their liberation. Antep was granted the title 'Gazi' (Veteran) in 1921, Maraş 'Kahraman' (Heroic) in 1973, and Urfa 'Şanlı' (Glorious) in 1984. The video also humorously explains the origin of the saying 'Adanalıyık, Allah'ın adamıyık' (We are from Adana, God's people).
The Western Front began with Kuvay-i Milliye resistance but transitioned to a regular army after the failure of the Gediz Offensive. İsmet İnönü was appointed to command the northern section, and Refet Bele the southern. The strategic importance of this front is highlighted, with five major battles: First Battle of İnönü (victory), Second Battle of İnönü (victory), Battle of Kütahya-Eskişehir (defeat), Battle of Sakarya (victory), and the Great Offensive (victory). The video uses a memorable hand gesture to summarize the outcomes of these battles.
The 'İstiklal Yolu' (Independence Road) played a crucial role in transporting arms and supplies from İnebolu to Ankara, with women carrying ammunition using ox carts. Figures like Şerife Bacı symbolize the sacrifices made. Besides local efforts, the TBMM received support from various sources, including financial aid from Muslim communities in India and Afghanistan, military supplies from Soviet Russia, and captured or purchased arms from Italy and France.
The video clarifies the sequence of diplomatic recognitions: Armenia was the first to recognize the TBMM and the National Pact (Misak-ı Milli). Soviet Russia was the first major Western European power to recognize the TBMM. Afghanistan was the first Muslim state to recognize the TBMM and open an embassy in Ankara. France was the first Entente Power to recognize the TBMM through the Ankara Agreement (1921). The London Conference (1921) saw collective recognition by the Entente Powers, and the Armistice of Mudanya (1922) marked the final recognition by Britain and Italy, signifying the end of the War of Independence.