Hidden Gems of Turkish History: Figures You Might Not Know

The rich tapestry of Turkish history is laced with many lesser-known figures who made significant contributions to the formation and modernization of the nation. From the DNA of our cells linking us to a common ancestor, to the pivotal reforms during the Tanzimat period, there are countless unsung heroes whose stories are worth exploring. This article highlights some of these hidden gems, who, despite their historical significance, are not widely known.

Mitochondrial Mehmet: A Common Ancestor's Legacy

The Mitochondrial Mehmet

Tracing back the DNA in the mitochondria of cells, we find that all humans share a theoretical common ancestor who lived approximately 200 to 300 years ago in an area known as Türkistan. This man, known as 'Mitochondrial Mehmet,' represents our shared genetic heritage. While there is little information available about the factions active during the National Struggle (Milli Mücadele), we can begin to understand the foundation of modern Turkey better by acknowledging these lesser-known figures.

Language Reformer: Dilicar Hagop Martaian

One such figure is Dilicar Hagop Martaian, an Armenian who played a crucial role in Ataturk's project to modernize the Turkish language. Ataturk gave him the nickname 'Dilicar' meaning 'tongue/language giver.' However, Turkey typically does not acknowledge Hagop Martaian's Armenian origins. In a Turkish newspaper, his death was reported simply as the passing of 'Dilicar.' Another Armenian who was part of this process was responsible for the calligraphy of Ataturk's official signature.

Absent from History Books: Abdülhalik Renda

Abdülhalik Renda is another important figure often overlooked in Turkish history. He played a significant role in the creation of modern Turkey. Despite his contributions, he remains a lesser-known figure in the broader narrative of Turkish national history.

Osman Donmeoglu: The Jewish Sandwich Seller

Osman Donmeoglu is a fascinating figure who sells kosher sandwiches outside the Israeli embassy in Istanbul. His sandwich cart stands in stark contrast to the average kosher sandwich carts found in Turkey, appearing less rusty and more well-maintained. Understandably, he has not received a lot of attention from the wider public or historical record.

Legal Reformers of the Tanzimat Era

Looking further back into Ottoman and modern Turkish history, key figures like Sultan Mahmud II, Sultan Abdülmecid I, and statesman Mustafa Reid Pasha were instrumental in driving the Tanzimat reforms. These reforms aimed to make all citizens of the Ottoman Empire equal before the law, regardless of religion and ethnicity. This was particularly groundbreaking in a time when Europe was still grappling with issues of equality and modernity.

The Young Ottomans and Ali Kemal

Another important group during this period was the Young Ottomans, a group of citizens who sought to restore the constitution and push for liberal reforms. Notable figures included Ibrahim Inasi, Nam?k Kemal, Ziya Pasha, Ali Suavi, and Ottoman officials like Midhat Pasha and Mustafa Fazl Pasha. Among them, Ali Kemal held strong and consistent liberal principles that ultimately led to his death.

The Turkish Language Association and Khanlar Kifa (Calligraphers)

The Turkish Language Association played a vital role in modernizing the Turkish language, adopting the Latin alphabet and creating a modern literary language. This was a significant transformation that moved literacy from the elite to the masses. The association was founded by Yakub Kadri Karaosmano?lu, Samih Rfet Ruen Eref ünaydn, and Celal Sahir Erozan. Their work was furthered by Agop Dilaar, Stepan Gurdikyan, and Kevork Simkeyan, who researched and created words from old Turkic roots to represent modern concepts.

The Balyan Family: Architects to the Ottoman Empire

The Balyan family, starting with Mason Bali Meremeti Bali Kalfa, was a stone mason from a Central Anatolian village, served as the Ottoman court architects for generations. They designed iconic landmarks such as the Dolmabah?e palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, and many other significant institutions in Istanbul and beyond.

Neutrality in Conflict: Modern Turkey's Struggle

One of the least appreciated major achievements of modern Turkey has been its neutrality in the Second World War and to some extent, the Cold War. This era of foreign policy played a crucial role in shaping the nation's future and its continued influence in the region.

In conclusion, the history of Turkey is filled with many unsung figures and events that have shaped the nation. From Mitochondrial Mehmet to the Balyan family, each story highlights the complexity and richness of Turkish history. By recognizing these lesser-known figures, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of the nation's journey and the individuals who made it.