The political and social function of Turkish nationalism in relation to the equipment of the National Struggle in the early years of the Republic

From prehistoric periods onward, the conceptual appearance of the Turks as a nation has undergone a change due to various geographical and cultural interactions, leading to a divergence from or loss of significance in their original appearance under the influence of diverse beliefs and languages. With the emergence of the concept of nationalism, it became evident that nationalism, as in any society, was influential in Turkish society as well. This trend, manifesting itself from the later periods of the Ottoman Empire, marked the collapse of an empire and, on the other hand, influenced the emergence of the Republic of Turkey as a nation-state. In the discussed study, emphasis has been placed on the effects of nationalist discourses and practices on the Turkish nation and its societal transformation. The interaction of Turkey with its surroundings due to its geographical location and the position it adopted as a result of this interaction are elaborated upon. The process of self-determination through modern, secular, and national motives of a nation subjected to domination by the Treaty of Sèvres is also discussed. The efforts during the War of Independence reveal a comprehensive approach to these endeavors in military, political, cultural, and societal dimensions. Despite a segment of society with submissive policies and ambivalent thoughts, the struggle was carried out with determination. The conceptual context of nationalism is observed to integrate contemporary concepts such as modernization, democracy, and republicanism into Turkish society. The understanding based on national perspective has played a decisive and effective role in both domestic and foreign policies. Within the era of Turkish nationalism, a policy of aggression was not adopted, and in accordance with the principle of "Peace at Home, Peace in the World," it aimed to achieve internal harmony and independence while contributing to global peace.The ethical values that constitute the Republic of Turkey are observed to be sustained, directing the society towards a new stance aimed at ensuring the stability of the Republic and solidifying the independence of the Turkish nation.