History As It Happens: From Atatürk to Erdoğan Hosted by Martin DeCaro | Released April 11, 2025
Introduction and Current Events in Turkey
Martin DeCaro opens the episode by addressing the latest political turmoil in Istanbul, where massive demonstrations support the city's mayor amid the recent arrest of key opposition figures. He highlights President Recep Erdoğan's 22-year rule, characterizing him as a strongman maneuvering Turkey towards autocracy.
“Turkey's strongman, Recep Erdogan is ruling like an autocrat, jailing political opponents and journalists unwilling to loosen his grip after more than two decades in power.” (00:52)
Historical Context: Atatürk and the Foundation of Modern Turkey
The episode delves into the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey, revered for transforming the nation from a decaying empire into a secular, Western-oriented republic. Martin DeCaro references a Time magazine article from 1953, lauding Atatürk's accomplishments in establishing democracy and secularism.
“Kemal Ataturk, the man who turned the face of his country from the east to the West.” (01:22)
A Military Analyst underscores the persistent influence of the military in Turkish politics, noting the numerous coups that have shaped the nation's political landscape.
“The Turkish army carried out their bloodless coup just before dawn on Friday, September 12th.” (05:30)
Erdoğan's Rise and the Shift Towards Authoritarianism
Gnul Tol, Director of the Middle East Institute’s Turkish Program, provides an in-depth analysis of Erdoğan’s gradual consolidation of power. Initially hailed for his reformist agenda after capturing 37% of the vote in 2002, Erdoğan strategically reduced the military's influence and built a broad coalition.
“His initial steps shortly after coming to power actually were very much in line with a strong reform agenda.” (09:04)
However, over time, Erdoğan's tactics shifted towards authoritarianism. The episode discusses his manipulation of legal systems, suppression of opposition, and control over media and the judiciary.
“He has been undermining the courts and the rule of law for a very long time now.” (23:13)
Recent Political Suppression and Democratic Erosion
The conversation highlights the recent arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a leading opposition figure, which significantly hampers the democratic process ahead of the 2028 presidential elections.
“Ekrem Imamoglu, the mayor of Istanbul… thrown in jail on bogus charges, it seems, of terrorism.” (17:41)
Gnul Tol explains Erdoğan's maneuvers to remain in power, including potential constitutional changes and alliances with the PKK to gain support from the Pro-Kurdish party.
“Erdogan thinks that if Abdullah urges his fighters to lay down arms, that will have an impact on the Pro Kurdish party, and they will support Erdogan's plans to rerun in 2028.” (19:11)
Impact on Turkish Society and International Relations
The episode examines the repercussions of Erdoğan's authoritarian shift on Turkish society and its international standing. Gnul Tol discusses how Erdoğan's actions have led to a significant decline in Turkey's ranking on global freedom indexes, likening its current state to that of Central Asian autocracies.
“Turkey is just on the bottom of that list [rule of law indexes]. And that is compared to Central Asian countries... a horrible score.” (24:49)
Furthermore, the discussion touches upon Turkey’s strategic role in global geopolitics, particularly in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where Erdoğan has positioned Turkey as a key mediator while balancing relations with NATO allies and regional powers like Saudi Arabia.
“Turkey is still a very important partner. And that's one of the reasons why Secretary Marco Rubio met with his Turkish counterpart twice in a very short period of time, because they want a ceasefire in Ukraine.” (33:43)
The Enduring Legacy of Atatürk and Resistance to Erdoğan's Reforms
Despite Erdoğan's attempts to diminish Atatürk's secular legacy, Gnul Tol notes that Atatürk remains immensely popular among Turks. This resurgence in Atatürk’s reverence correlates with the growing support for the Republican People's Party (CHP), founded by Atatürk, which has broadened its appeal beyond traditional secularist bases.
“Ataturk remains the most revered, most well respected Turkish leader in the country.” (36:03)
This revival signifies a strong undercurrent of resistance against Erdoğan’s Sunni Islamist vision, highlighting the deep-seated cultural and political divisions within Turkey.
The Role and Transformation of the Turkish Military
The episode explores the evolving role of the Turkish military, traditionally a guardian of secularism, now increasingly politicized and aligned with Erdoğan's vision. Gnul Tol points out that the military, once a potential check against authoritarianism, has become an instrument supporting Erdoğan’s regime.
“Turkish military has never been as politicized as it is today... loyalists are appointed to top positions.” (38:19)
This shift undermines the military's historical role in safeguarding Turkey’s secular republic, further entrenching autocratic control.
Concluding Insights and Future Outlook
Martin DeCaro and Gnul Tol conclude by reflecting on the precarious state of Turkish democracy. They emphasize the importance of internal resistance and the potential for political change despite Erdoğan's stronghold. The episode underscores the intricate balance between domestic policies and international dynamics, suggesting that the global geopolitical environment significantly influences Turkey's internal political trajectory.
“In today's world, where there's this huge fight between autocracy and democracies... you cannot just ignore domestic developments in a country like Turkey.” (28:01)
Looking Ahead
In the closing moments, Martin DeCaro previews the next episode, which will tackle the complex issue of anti-Semitism and its manifestations in contemporary society.
“On the next episode of History As It Happens, what is anti Semitism?... We'll talk about this pressing issue with historian Omer Bartov next.” (41:53)
Key Takeaways:
- Erdoğan's rise from a reformist leader to an autocrat has been a gradual process marked by strategic suppression of opposition and control over key institutions.
- The legacy of Atatürk remains a powerful symbol of secularism and modernity in Turkey, serving as a counterbalance to Erdoğan's Islamist and authoritarian tendencies.
- Turkey's military, once a bastion of secularism, is now deeply intertwined with Erdoğan's political apparatus, diminishing its role as a democratic safeguard.
- International geopolitical dynamics, particularly Turkey's role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, have significant implications for its domestic political landscape.
- The erosion of democratic institutions in Turkey serves as a cautionary tale of how democracies can transition into autocracies through incremental and often legally justified measures.
Notable Quotes:
- “Turkey's strongman, Recep Erdogan is ruling like an autocrat...” (00:52)
- “Kemal Ataturk, the man who turned the face of his country from the east to the West.” (01:22)
- “He has been undermining the courts and the rule of law for a very long time now.” (23:13)
- “Turkey is just on the bottom of that list [rule of law indexes].” (24:49)
- “Ataturk remains the most revered, most well respected Turkish leader in the country.” (36:03)
This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of Turkey's political evolution from Atatürk’s secular reforms to Erdoğan’s current autocratic rule, offering valuable insights into the challenges facing Turkish democracy and its implications for the broader Middle East and global geopolitics.