The main stages of the formation of historical memory in Turkey

Abstract

The article deals with the main stages of formation of historical memory in Turkey from the period of the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and the establishment of the Republic of Turkey to the present day. The basis for the formation of the paradigm of historical consciousness is the historical policy pursued by the state.

The influence of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk's reforms aimed at secularization and modernization of the country on the formation of national identity is analyzed. Particular attention is paid to the changing approaches to the Ottoman heritage in the 21st century under the leadership of Recep Tayyip Erdogan, including an increased emphasis on Islamic traditions and the glorification of the past.

The article discusses key mechanisms of historical memory formation, such as state memory policy, educational reforms, cultural popularization and the symbolism of national holidays. A special place is given to analyzing the silencing of complex historical topics, such as the Armenian genocide and the Kurdish question, and their impact on the country's domestic and foreign policy.

The question of Turkey's historical self-image faces a dilemma. On one side is the legacy of the Ottoman Empire and on the other is a secular republic. At the same time, ignoring difficult moments in history, such as the Armenian genocide and the Kurdish question, exacerbates internal conflicts and international pressure. For Turkey's sustainable development, it is important to find a balance between these different components of identity and historical memory, and to begin a more open and honest discussion of its past.

It is concluded that the Republic of Turkey has developed a complex, contradictory paradigm of historical consciousness, combining concordant and conflicting elements.