May 19 — The beginning of the Turkish War of Independence

Turkey and the TRNC are celebrating May 19 today — the Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day. Exactly 107 years ago, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk arrived in Samsun, launching the national liberation struggle that eventually led to the creation of the Republic of Turkey.

Following the signing of the Armistice of Mudros in 1918, the Ottoman Empire fell under the occupation of the Allied powers. Greek, British, French, and Italian troops occupied several regions of the country, and in November 1918, the British fleet entered Istanbul.

Amid intensifying pressure and occupation, Mustafa Kemal was appointed inspector of the 9th Army and departed from Istanbul on May 15, 1919, aboard the steamer 'Bandırma'. On the morning of May 19, he landed in Samsun along with his comrades — an event considered the starting point of the Turkish War of Independence.

It was from Samsun that the national resistance movement began, later spreading to Havza, Amasya, Erzurum, and Sivas. This struggle eventually culminated in the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey on October 29, 1923.

Historians note that May 19 became a symbol not only of military resistance but also of national unity. According to Professor Kaya Tuncer Çağlayan of Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun played a pivotal role in convincing Mustafa Kemal of the people's readiness to support the struggle for independence.

Atatürk himself later referred to May 19 as his 'birthday'. In modern Turkey, this day is dedicated to youth and sports as a symbol of the country's future and the continuation of the ideals of national unity and independence.