May 19th: Honoring Legacy and Youthful Spirit in Turkey
On May 19th, Turkey celebrates a unique combination of remembrance and youthful spirit with Atatürk Commemoration, Youth and Sports Day. This public holiday was established by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, to inspire the country's youth and to honor his own achievements. The date holds significance as it commemorates the start of the Turkish War of Independence in 1919, which Atatürk led. Atatürk is more than just a historical figure in Turkey; he's seen as a symbol of progressive values and modernization. His reforms transformed the remnants of the Ottoman Empire into a modern, democratic, and secular nation-state. On this day, Turkish people across the country and the world remember Atatürk's contributions and celebrate the energy and potential of young people. The streets of cities and towns across Turkey are filled with parades, performances, and sporting events. Schools host ceremonies where students receive awards for academic achievement...