A study over the occupation and the liberation of İzmir in İzmir press (1922-1938)

The dates May 15, 1919 and September 9, 1922 stand as a climax for Izmir. The invasion begins with the Greek army's entering in Izmir and ends with the elimination of the Greek army in Izmir, as well. September 9 is the anniversary of the event in which Turkish army reached at the first target and the motherland was liberated, while 15 May is the anniversary of the date in which Greeks attacked motherland. Regarding these, the value of these days is quite great for Turkish People and especially for the people in Izmir. Izmir Press gives great importance for these two dates as the anniversaries of invasion and liberation. On 15 May, newspapers spare columns for articles and poems reminding and memorizing these dates. Besides, while a great enmity against Greeks draws great attention during the first years following the Independence, a considerable fall in this enmity against Greeks is seen from 1930 on. The newspapers published on September 9 write articles and poems explaining the meaning and importance of the date, the story of independence, preparations for festival and celebration ceremonies. Also, Gazi Mustafa Kemal, the master builder of all these accomplishments, takes place in articles mentioning gratitude and praise of him in the seat of honour parts of the newspapers. Thus, Izmir Press contributes to the comprehension of these two dates by people by means of the thoughts and ideas written in articles. Keywords: Izmir Press, May 15, Invasion of Izmir, September 9, liberation of Izmir