Political life in Erzincan (1960-1980)

Erzincan, which numerous civilizations have inhabited since antiquity, has endured throughout history despite various natural and human-induced disasters. Following the Turkish conquest of Anatolia, the city developed into a Turkish-Islamic urban center, assuming various functions across distinct historical periods. During the Medieval and Early Modern eras, Erzincan emerged as a prominent center of science, culture, and Sufism; from the nineteenth century onward, it also gained a distinct military identity alongside these features. Although numerous studies have been conducted on Erzincan's history during the Medieval and Ottoman periods, scholarly research focusing on its modern era remains limited. This study aims to contribute to the literature by examining the socio-political structure of Erzincan between 1960 and 1980. The introduction of this study outlines the scope, purpose, hypothesis, and sources used. The first chapter provides a general overview of Erzincan's historical geography, political development, population structure, and administrative organization. The second chapter details the impact of the reshaping of Turkish politics after the May 27, 1960 military coup on Erzincan, focusing on election processes and local politics. Finally, the third chapter examines the effects of the nationwide political turmoil of the 1970s on Erzincan, including social unrest, its consequences, and election processes. Specific data are supported with tables and graphs to provide a comprehensive perspective on Erzincan's contemporary historical development. Keywords: Erzincan, Parties, Elections, Multi-Party System, Political Life