Transformation of Turkish politics and consequences (1946 – 1954)

The developments during and after the World War II have forced Turkey to switch to multi-party political life, who wanted to avoid being alone in international affairs. The opposition movement which was led by an experienced politician, Celal Bayar, resulted in the foundation of the Democratic Party (DP). Following the foundation of the Democratic Party which has attracted public interest and developments in international affairs forced the Republican People's Party (CHP) to pass several laws between 1946 and 1950. The 12 July Declaration, which was a result of internal and external factors, has become a milestone in Turkish politics. This declaration allowed a safe transformation into the multi-party political system. As a result of the philosophical changes in politics, CHP began to pursue a moderate policy both as a government and as a political party. The 7th Congress of the CHP in 1947 had a great significance for the CHP and Turkish politics. As a result of the decisions taken in this congress, a lot of changes made in several areas. Atatürk's principles were reinterpreted. The diminishing influence of pro-single-party radical MPs in the party management was quickly replaced by pro-transformation MPs. When the Democratic Party came to power in 1950, the change in the mentality of Turkish politics has accelerated. First of all, the exchange of the roles as power and opposition led to the growth of liberalization movement within the CHP. "Halkevleri" serving the CHP ideology were closed. The CHP goods were transferred to the treasury. Practices in the field of secularism have been softened. In the economic field, the transition from statism to liberalism began. An open economy policy was adopted. Turkey has followed by an active policy in the international arena in this period. Between 1946 and 1950, we see that İsmet İnönü on behalf of the CHP and Celal Bayar on behalf of the DP played an active role in the transition to multi-party political life and the process of philosophical change. The moderate and nonchalant policy pursued by both leaders was the key factor in the success of this process.