Turkey, a land where East meets West, has been a cradle of civilizations for thousands of years. Its strategic location bridging Asia and Europe has made it a center of culture, trade, and power throughout history.
Ancient Times
The history of Turkey begins with ancient civilizations such as the Hittites, who established one of the earliest known empires in Anatolia around 1600 BCE. Following them, the region became home to Greek city-states, including Troy and Ephesus, flourishing along the Aegean coast.
Roman and Byzantine Periods
After Alexander the Great’s conquests, Anatolia became part of the Roman Empire. Later, Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) emerged as the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, playing a key role in Christianity and world history for over a millennium.
The Seljuks and the Ottomans
In the 11th century, the Seljuk Turks entered Anatolia and founded the Anatolian Seljuk State. They brought Islamic culture and architecture to the region. By the late 13th century, the Ottoman Empire rose in northwestern Anatolia. Under Ottoman rule, which lasted for over 600 years, the empire expanded across three continents, making Istanbul a vibrant capital of political, cultural, and economic power.
The Republic of Turkey
The Ottoman Empire dissolved after World War I. In 1923, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk led the Turkish War of Independence and established the Republic of Turkey. He introduced major reforms in education, law, language, and women’s rights, shaping a modern, secular nation.
Modern Era
Today, Turkey continues to stand as a country rich in history, blending ancient traditions with a modern outlook. Its historical legacy can be seen in its architecture, cuisine, art, and the values of its people.
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